Understanding Strength Training

Strength training is a type of exercise that focuses on building and strengthening muscles in the body. It involves using resistance, such as weights, to challenge the muscles and force them to adapt, grow, and become stronger. This type of training is popular among athletes, bodybuilders, and fitness enthusiasts alike, as it helps to improve physical performance, increase muscle mass, and enhance overall health and wellness.

The Benefits of Strength Training

Strength training has many incredible benefits for our bodies, including:

• Building muscle mass and strength
• Improving bone density and reducing the risk of osteoporosis
• Increasing metabolism and burning calories
• Improving overall physical fitness and athletic performance
• Enhancing mental health and reducing stress
• Improving cardiovascular health and reducing the risk of heart disease and stroke

Understanding Cardiovascular Exercise

Cardiovascular or “cardio” exercise is any type of physical activity that raises the heart rate and increases blood flow throughout the body, such as running, cycling, or swimming. This type of exercise is designed to improve cardiovascular health, increase endurance and stamina, and burn calories.

Many people wonder whether strength training can also be considered a form of cardio exercise. While strength training does not typically raise the heart rate to the same extent as traditional cardio exercises, it can still provide many of the same benefits.

Strength training challenges the body and forces it to work harder, leading to an increased heart rate and improved cardiovascular health. Additionally, strength training can be done in a circuit or high-intensity interval training (HIIT) style, which involves performing exercises quickly and with little rest in between, resulting in a significant increase in heart rate and calorie burn.

Combining Strength Training and Cardio

For those who want to combine strength training and cardio in their workouts, there are several ways to do so. One common method is to perform strength exercises in a circuit or HIIT style, with short rest periods in between sets. This can help to keep the heart rate elevated and improve overall fitness and cardiovascular health.

Another way to combine strength training and cardio is to perform “complex” exercises, which involve using multiple muscle groups at once and elevating the heart rate. Examples of complex exercises include squat jumps, burpees, and mountain climbers.

The Bottom Line

While strength training may not be considered traditional cardio exercise, it can still provide many of the same benefits and improve cardiovascular health. By incorporating strength training into a comprehensive fitness plan, individuals can improve their overall physical performance and achieve their health and wellness goals. Remember, always consult with a healthcare professional before starting any new exercise program.