When it comes to living a long and healthy life, we all want to ensure we’re doing the right things to help us get there. This includes managing the right lifestyle choices and choosing the appropriate diet and exercise regimen.
Two types of exercises that often come to mind as ways to do this are strength training and cardio. While both forms of exercise have their benefits, which one is better for promoting longevity?
We will look at that and explore everything from research to the pros and cons of these exercise types. Hopefully, by the time we’re done, you’ll know which option to include in your everyday lifestyle.
What are the Similarities?
When it comes to longevity, it’s important to note that both strength training and cardio can have a positive impact on your health. While they may seem like very different types of exercises, they have some similarities. These include:
- Both improve your heart health
- Help improve your bone density
- Reduce the risk of chronic diseases such as obesity and type 2 diabetes
So while they may be different types of exercise, both strength training and cardio can positively impact our health and longevity. The key is to find a balance that works for you and your lifestyle so that you can enjoy the benefits of both types of exercise.
What are the Differences?
While there are some similarities between strength training and cardio when it comes to promoting longevity, some key differences are also considered. These differences include the following:
- Cardio is typically more effective at improving our overall fitness endurance. This is because it focuses on proving our cardiovascular system which can help us perform physical activities for longer periods.
- Strength training may be more effective at preventing age-related muscle loss and improving our balance and coordination.
- Cardiovascular typically is better at burning calories and reducing body fat. While both exercises can help improve our body composition, cardio is typically more effective at burning calories during exercise.
Pros and Cons: Strength Training vs. Cardio For Longevity
Now let’s look at the advantages and disadvantages of each regarding longevity. To do this, we’re a pros and cons list for each.
Strength Training
Pros:
- Helps to build and maintain muscle mass
- Can improve bone density
- Able to enhance balance and coordination
- Increases resting metabolic rate
Cons:
- It may not be as effective at improving cardiovascular health
- It can be more intense and require more recovery time
- Beginners may find it intimidating
Cardio
Pros:
- Improves cardiovascular health and endurance
- It can burn more calories and reduce body fat
- Less intimidating and easier to get started
- It may improve mood and reduce stress levels
Cons:
- Not as effective at building and maintaining muscle mass
- Some may find it repetitive and boring
- This may lead to overuse injuries if done too frequently or with poor form
Which One is More Beginner-Friendly?
So which one of these exercises is more beginner friendly? Cardio is typically seen as the easier option. This is because it can be easy to get started with and requires less specialized equipment or instruction.
For example, going for a walk, run, or bike ride doesn’t require any special equipment or instruction; it can be done anywhere at any time.
Similarly, group fitness classes such as Zumba, step aerobics, or kickboxing can be a fun and social way to get your heart rate up without needing much experience.
Ultimately, both cardio and strength training can be beginner-friendly with the right approach and guidance.
Which One Gets Better or Faster Results?
When it comes to which type of access will give faster, better results, it depends on what you’re looking for. Cardio is typically seen as the fastest and more effective option if your goal is to improve cardiovascular health and endurance.
This is because it directly targets the cardiovascular system, improves heart Lung function, and can lead to quick muscle mass and strength.
Therefore, strength training may be the better option. While it may take longer to see visible changes in muscle mass, strength training can lead to quicker improvements in strength and power, which can benefit overall physical function and athletic performance.
Final Thoughts on Strength Training Vs. Cardio For Longevity
The truth is that both strength training and cardio have their own pluses and minuses when it comes to promoting longevity. For example, strength training can help to build and maintain muscle mass, improve bone density, and increase metabolic rate.
In contrast, cardio can improve cardiovascular health, burn calories and reduce stress levels.
In the end, the type of exercise is the one that you enjoy and can stick to constantly over time, and this will ensure that you have more impact on your longevity.
In addition, truthfully, incorporating a combination of both types of these exercises can help improve overall fitness and extend that longevity, which is what most of us strive to do daily.