Does Strength Training Burn More Fat Than Cardio?

James Dove
Written By James Dove

What is Strength Training?

Strength training is a type of physical exercise that aims to increase an individual’s strength, endurance, and muscle mass. This type of training is typically done using weights, resistance bands, or one’s body weight as resistance. Strength training can be done in a gym, at home, or outdoors.

Types of Strength Training

  • Free Weight Training
  • Machine Training
  • Bodyweight Training
  • Hybrid Training

What is Cardio?

Cardio, short for cardiovascular exercise, is a type of physical activity that increases heart rate and blood flow in the body. Cardio exercises are done to improve cardiovascular health, burn calories, and reduce stress.

Types of Cardio Exercises

  • Running
  • Cycling
  • Swimming
  • Jumping Jacks
  • Burpees

How Does Strength Training Affect Fat Loss?

Strength training can increase your metabolic rate, even when you are at rest. This means that your body burns more calories, which can lead to fat loss. When you lift weights or use resistance bands, your muscles are broken down, and your body needs to repair them. This process is called the afterburn effect, where your body continues to burn calories after your workout is finished.

Benefits of Strength Training for Fat Loss

  • Increase in Muscle Mass
  • Increase in Metabolic Rate
  • Fat Loss

How Does Cardio Affect Fat Loss?

Cardio can also help with fat loss by burning calories. When you do cardio exercises, you are increasing your heart rate and blood flow, which can help you burn calories faster. Cardio can also help reduce stress and improve cardiovascular health.

Benefits of Cardio for Fat Loss

  • Burn Calories
  • Improve Cardiovascular Health
  • Reduce Stress

Which is Better for Fat Loss, Strength Training or Cardio?

Both strength training and cardio can help with fat loss. However, the best way to lose fat is to do a combination of both. Strength training can help increase your metabolic rate, and cardio can help you burn calories faster. When done together, they can help you achieve your fat loss goals.

Tips for Combining Strength Training and Cardio

  • Do strength training before cardio
  • Schedule your workouts
  • Switch up your workouts