So, we have all read the stories, articles, viewed the memes, quotes, etc about how much better for our bodies and all around health weight training is compared to cardio alone. I wholeheartedly believe this but I thought I would do a little experiment. So, last week I did my weight training workout for about 45 minutes and decided to do cardio at the end. I personally do LISS (Low Intensity Steady State Cardio) 2-3 times a week for about 20-25 min as well as go for runs outside 1-2 times a week or take a Zumba class or go for a bike ride. This definitely varies for me as I am very busy with work and life in general. This particular day was an LISS day. So, I get on the treadmill and I use my heart monitor to be sure my heart rate stays in the range that works for me. The thing is I couldn't get my heart rate down to where it needed to be! Even walking at 3.2 on the treadmill! It was insane. My heart rate stayed between 125-145 the whole time with hardly any exertion from me. That may not seem high to some but my resting heart rate is 45. so, moral of this post, weight training raises your heart rate and burns calories for a long time after you lift. Cardio only burns calories and raises your heart rate while you do it.
LIFT MORE. CARDIO LESS.
(FYI - this does not apply to those that have large amounts of weight to lose or those in competition prep. Those are different cases altogether)
GO OUT AND LIFT!!!
Get some!
Monica
