STRENGTH & FITNESS
Strength Training vs. Cardio: Do You Need Both?
THE SHORT ANSWER
Strength and cardiovascular training solve different problems. Most people benefit from an appropriate amount of both.
WHAT ACTUALLY MATTERS
Strength training helps develop and maintain muscular strength and function. Aerobic activity develops cardiorespiratory fitness and contributes to overall health. U.S. guidance for adults includes both: weekly aerobic activity plus muscle-strengthening work on at least two days. The right balance depends on what you are trying to improve.
WHERE PEOPLE GET STUCK
The false choice is thinking you have to become a lifter or a cardio person. Doing so can leave an important quality undertrained. The other mistake is adding so much conditioning that it interferes with recovery from your highest-priority training.
WHAT TO DO THIS WEEK
Keep your primary goal first, then make room for the other quality. If strength is your priority, complete your planned strength sessions and add an easy walk, bike or similar aerobic session this week instead of replacing strength work with it.
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