When it comes to working out, it can be tough to decide whether to start with cardio or weight training. Both are important for overall fitness, but which one should you do first? In this article, we’ll explore the benefits of each and give you our recommendation on what to do first.
The Pain Points of Cardio vs. Weight Training
For many people, the biggest pain point when it comes to cardio is boredom. Running on a treadmill or cycling on a stationary bike can feel like a never-ending slog. On the other hand, weight training can be intimidating for beginners who aren’t sure how to use the machines or lift weights properly.
Our Recommendation: Do Weight Training First
After weighing the benefits of each, we recommend starting with weight training. Why? Because weight training is better for building muscle, which can help you burn more calories and lose fat. Plus, weight training has been shown to have a greater impact on your metabolism, which means you’ll continue burning calories even after your workout is over.
Cardio is still important, of course. It’s great for improving your cardiovascular health and endurance. But if you’re short on time and have to choose between cardio and weight training, weight training should be your priority.
Personal Experience: Why I Do Weight Training First
Personally, I’ve found that starting with weight training helps me feel more energized for the rest of my workout. When I start with cardio, I often feel tired and drained by the time I get to weight training. But when I do weight training first, I’m able to lift heavier and feel more focused throughout my workout.
The Benefits of Cardio
That’s not to say that cardio isn’t important. Cardiovascular exercise is great for improving your heart health and reducing your risk of chronic diseases like diabetes and high blood pressure. Plus, it can help you burn calories and lose weight.
One of the best things about cardio is that there are so many different types to choose from. If running on a treadmill sounds boring to you, try a dance class, a spin class, or even a game of basketball. Mixing up your cardio routine can help keep things interesting and prevent boredom.
Why Weight Training is Important
Weight training, on the other hand, is essential for building muscle mass and improving your overall body composition. When you lift weights, you create tiny tears in your muscle fibers. As your body repairs these tears, your muscles grow stronger and more defined.
Additionally, weight training can help prevent injury by strengthening your bones and improving your balance and coordination. Plus, it’s a great way to boost your confidence and feel strong and empowered.
Tips for Getting Started with Weight Training
If you’re new to weight training, it can be intimidating to walk into a gym and not know what to do. But don’t worry – everyone has to start somewhere. Here are a few tips to help you get started:
- Start with bodyweight exercises like squats, lunges, and push-ups. You don’t need any equipment and you can do them anywhere.
- When you’re ready to move on to weights, start with light weights and focus on proper form. It’s better to lift light weights with good form than heavy weights with bad form.
- Ask a trainer for help if you’re not sure how to use a machine or lift weights properly. They can show you the correct form and give you tips to help you get the most out of your workout.
Question and Answer
Q: How long should I do cardio and weight training?
A: It depends on your fitness goals and schedule. Aim for at least 30 minutes of cardio most days of the week, and 2-3 weight training sessions per week.
Q: Should I do cardio and weight training on the same day?
A: Yes, you can do both on the same day. Just be sure to start with weight training so you have the energy to lift heavy and maintain proper form.
Q: Is it better to do cardio or weight training for weight loss?
A: Both are important for weight loss, but weight training is more effective for building muscle and boosting your metabolism. Aim for a combination of both cardio and weight training for optimal weight loss results.
Q: Can I do weight training without lifting weights?
A: Yes, you can do bodyweight exercises like squats, lunges, and push-ups to build muscle without lifting weights.
Conclusion
So there you have it – our recommendation is to start with weight training and then move on to cardio. But ultimately, the most important thing is to find a workout routine that you enjoy and that fits your lifestyle. Whether you’re lifting weights, running on a treadmill, or dancing in a Zumba class, the important thing is to keep moving and stay active.
