What type of exercise is most effective for weight loss – strength training or cardio?
Oh, that is such a great question!
If you only had to do one, choose strength training as muscle burns fat. Ideally, though, you would do both strength training and cardio. Be sure that both types of exercises are included, as well as flexibility, to ensure a well-rounded weight loss program.
My suggestion is that cardio be done 4-5 days per week, strength training 2-3 days per week, and flexibility included in your cool down after each session.
I have been using Circuit Training for a long time because it works wonders for all areas of cardio, strenght, and endurance. I timed and combined upper and lower body exercises with timed series of cardio boosts and then a short rest. While they are resting I include stretches. Other times I do more intervals with strenght series, always including the flexibility. You can get very creative with these. They are fun and effective
It is important to have a well balanced workout combining cardio and strength training. Cardio at least 5 days a week with strenght training 3 days a week.
I suggest cardio intervals which means short quick bursts increasing your speed and intensity for a short period of time. Intervals have been proven to jump start the fat burn for max. effect. Also try something new and take in a cardio class at your gym, classes can be the best way to learn exercises and get motivated.
Given the choice of one OR the other this isn’t even a question. The term “Cardio” as it is understood by the general public defines a bout of continuous cardiovascular exercise. This type of exercise is probably the least effective towards fat loss. The most effective type of routine is one that tells the body to preserve muscle mass during weight loss as well as depleting glycogen to the greatest degree. This is will put the body in the best possible state to lose body fat. Such a routine would include some type of strength training and high intensity interval training in combination as in congruent training or possibly a Crossfit type circuit routine. The key is to work as hard as you can. The metabolic stress caused by this type of training will increase the “afterburn” and force the body to adapt to the stimulus. The taller the perceived obstacle the quicker the adaptation.
