Regarding weight loss, the age-old debate between cardio and weight training continues to be discussed among fitness enthusiasts. Both forms of exercise offer unique benefits, but which is better for shedding those extra pounds?
Cardiovascular exercise, commonly known as cardio, elevates your heart rate and increases oxygen consumption. It includes activities like running, cycling, swimming, and aerobics. Cardio is highly effective for burning calories in a single session, making it a popular choice for those looking to shed pounds quickly.
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On the other hand, weight training, or resistance training, focuses on using external resistance to build strength and muscle mass. While weight training may not burn as many calories during a session as cardio, it has a significant afterburn effect known as excess post-exercise oxygen consumption (EPOC). It means your body continues to burn calories at an elevated rate even after your workout.
So, which is better for weight loss? The answer lies in a combination of both. A balanced cardio and weight training routine can be the most effective approach.
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Cardio helps create a calorie deficit, which is crucial for weight loss. It burns many calories during the exercise session and improves cardiovascular health. Additionally, it can be an enjoyable way to boost mood and reduce stress.
Weight training, on the other hand, helps build lean muscle mass. Muscle tissue burns more calories at rest than fat tissue, so increasing muscle mass can help boost your metabolism. It means you’ll burn more calories throughout the day, even when not exercising.