Catch 22: Cardio or Strength Training

Choosing the lines of least resistance, most devotees, learners and practitioners have their pick of cardiovascular activity over strength training. A chiseled physique is all that lies at the end of the road; but isn't that a shotgun approach? There's no denying that cardio brings not just increased metabolism, improved heart health and reduced stress rate to the table with listings and books elucidating the inconceivable repercussions of weight loss, but also a great deal of burning calories and building stamina. A palestrato would find it a mere bagatelle to choose either of the two, and would rather argue the toss; stating the inconsequentiality of doing either before the other. Contradictory opinions and conclusions are bound to stimulate the gymer's mind into adopting the inefficient technique. Here's where you'll find exactly what to do first, strength training or cardio.

Cherry picked by researchers, a cardiovascular activity must always follow an intense session of weight lifting. It is vital that this approach is indulged in, since more strength and power is needed to lift heavier loads than do a cardio. Consequently, if the reverse is attempted, little energy would any individual have to lift bulky weights; and would rather be dosed with lethargy and fatigue.The entirety of the issue, however, is not just doing one before the other; rather is balancing an equitable combination of the two. Below are a few myths, perplexing as ever; yet reasoned and perfected by my personal translations of apprehensions.

1. WEIGHT LIFTING MAKES WOMEN MASCULINE

A treadmill is all that a women is limited to, isn't it? An indisputable delusion is all it takes to alter the physiology of any woman. Bulkiness is not a byproduct of weight lifting, a common misconception of the kind. In fact, to all the ladies out there, building lean muscle not only speeds up metabolism; but also helps them attain the perfect bikini body they dream of. Hypothetically, lifting weights uses more energy and vigor, so more calories are burned. Substantiating this point, as more calories are burned, one starts to burn fat and build muscle, an essential ingredient in getting the perfect toned abs.

2. STRENGTH TRAINING WILL STUNT THE GROWTH OF CHILDREN

If parents can permit their children to do cardio, essentially involving jogging, running, cycling or swimming, then why not strength training? It is a misconception that weight lifting causes children to attain their maximum height slowly. On the contrary, strength training is found to assist bone growth and development in young children. Youngsters are found to have improved athletic performance, coupled with resistance to injuries acquired. An excellent paragon is the legendary Arnold Schwarzenegger himself. He began his strength training at such an early age, and even today; he doesn't cease to impress us all.

3. COMMON MYTHS

Many a times, people tend to believe that weight lifting is dangerous as it is deleterious to our joints. High blood pressure, decrease in flexibility and bulkiness are again illusions of innumerable people. As a matter of fact, you must understand that strength training changes your shape, and cardio changes your size. A balance of the two is paramount in achieving body goals. Lifting alone doesn't make you drop pounds; fat mass and waist circumference decrease when you do a combo of both.

Furthermore, I find it critical to mention that strength training brings more advantages than we believe it does; especially giving a greater afterburn effect. This effect means we continue to lose calories upto 48 hours post a workout. Lesser risks of injuries due to fatigue and increased stamina is perhaps convincing enough for any reader to comprehend the severity of a perfect workout schedule involving strength training first and cardio next.

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