Importance of Cardio and Weight Training

Importance of Both Cardio and Weight Training Exercises

In general, individuals that work out tend to gravitate toward either weight training exercises or cardiovascular exercises. Some individuals choose to jog or run, utilize elliptical machines, or attend aerobic exercise classes, dance classes, or fitness classes. Other individuals prefer to use weight training equipment such as dumbbells, weight training machines, and other types of free weights. In many cases, individuals only focus on one area of their fitnesshealth and fitness – either cardio exercises or weight training exercises. Individuals that do so may want to reconsider changing their exercise regiment. In order to obtain the full benefits of a workout, there is a need to include both cardiovascular activities and weight training activities in their workout routine. When combined,together both cardiovascular exercises and weight training exercises will create a effective workout plan.

Why both weight training activities and cardio exercisescardiovascular exercises are Important?

Weight training is primary to the development of strong, sleek muscles. Also known as strength training, weight training not only helps to build strong muscles but can also help prevent injuries, increase muscular endurance, and improve coordination and balance. Weight training is the best way for individuals to change their physical appearance. Weight training focuses on the muscles, cardio activities  target other areas such as the heart and lungs. Cardio activities are an the ultimate way to burn calories, strengthen the heart, increase lung capacity, reduce stress, and reduce the risk of things such as high blood pressure and heart attack. Cardio can help individuals arrive at their weight loss goals. In a balanced combination, cardiovascular activities and weight training activities can offer the ultimate in workout benefits.

How to Balance Cardio and Weight Training Activities

Balancing cardio exercises and weight training activities can be complicated, and many individuals are not sure how to achieve this hard task. In order to discover the correct balance, individuals should ask themselves a couple of questions. One question individuals need to answer is what their motivation is for starting an workout program. Individuals that desire to lose weight, burn calories, and strengthen their muscles to prevent injury may want to devote approximately 75 % of their workout time to cardiovascular activities. Those that prefer to build muscles will want to devote about 75 percent of their exercise time to weight training exercise activities. The other 25 % will be comprised of weight training and cardiovascular exercise activities respectively.

A second question that individuals need to ask is in what order should cardio and weight training exercise be conducted. This will help them determine the type of exercises in which they need to take part and when or if these exercises should be undertaken. For example, individuals that want to build body mass will want to avoid long distance running because long distance running can inhibit an individual's strength gains. If individuals wish to strengthen the muscles in their legs, any cardio that uses the same body part may need to be scheduled for another day. This is true for all muscle groups. Alternating weight training and cardio activities can help individuals reach their utmost workout potential and achieve the desired goads.

The Two-Punch Combo

For the most effective workout program, individuals should combinecardio and weight training exercise . The extent to which these exercise routines are undertaken will depend in large part upon the individual's desired workout goals. Incorporating both routines into a workout program will be more appropriate than simply focusing on one type of workout activity. Regardless of one's workout goals, participating in both weight training and cardio activities will provide the most health and fitness benefits.