Cardio vs. Weightlifting: Which reigns supreme?


The everlasting battle of cardio vs. weightlifting rages on, as each compete for the title of best exercise regimen. Realistically, however, no one can expect to see killer results without incorporating aspects of both into a workout routine.

Photo by Jonathan Borba on Unsplash

The everlasting battle of cardio vs. weightlifting rages on, as each compete for the title of best exercise regimen. Realistically, however, no one can expect to see killer results without incorporating aspects of both into a workout routine. Although cardio and weightlifting each provide some helpful benefits on their own, combining the two with a well-balanced diet can create the optimal environment for increased fat loss, improved mental health, and enhanced overall wellness.

Benefits of Cardio

Cardio, or cardiovascular exercise, includes anything that gets your heart pumping. Also known as aerobic exercise, cardio strengthens the entire cardiovascular system, which includes the heart and lungs. Cardio consists of moving large muscle groups repeatedly at a low to moderate intensity to improve one’s aerobic capacity, or how much oxygen is delivered through the body during physical activity. While someone with low aerobic capacity may have a hard time walking up a single flight of stairs without feeling out of breath, due to a lack of oxygen circulation, someone with high aerobic capacity will likely feel more energized during day-to-day activities and when working out.

Cardio not only helps strengthen the heart, lungs, and muscle groups but also offers many other benefits. Cardio also:

  • Reduces joint pain and stiffness
  • Allows for better sleep
  • Lowers blood pressure and risk of cardiovascular disease
  • Decrease chances of stroke
  • Improve memory and cognitive function
  • Burns calories
  • Helps control an appetite
  • Boosts mood and overall wellness

Benefits of Weightlifting

Weightlifting can be intimidating. You may be worried that lifting weights bill put unwanted bulk on your frame or simply not know where to start. Luckily, these concerns are easily remedied, however, with just a little research. Weight training and resistance training are anaerobic exercises, meaning that your strength is not based on the amount of oxygen that your blood is able to carry. Weight training does so much more than just build muscle; it also:

  • Reduces abdominal fat, also known as visceral fat
  • Improves organ function due to reduced visceral fat
  • Helps regulate blood sugar levels
  • Reduces the risk of cancer
  • Improves mobility and flexibility
  • Lowers risk of injury due to improved mobility
  • Prevents osteoporosis
  • Protects against cognitive decline

Weightlifting can also improve one’s overall mental health by reducing anxiety symptoms!

Balance is Key

Overall, the best workout plan includes both aerobic and anaerobic exercises. Talk to a doctor to see what exercises you can start to incorporate into your routine to reach your peak level of physical fitness!

Health Insurance Questions?

We hope this information on cardio vs. weightlifting is helpful. 

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About Macee Hall

Originally from the snow-capped Rockies, Macee moved to Texas in 2016 to pursue an undergraduate degree in Strategic Communication. She currently serves as a writer and editor for Empower Brokerage, as well as the marketing manager for Preferred Senior Advisors. Macee is also working on her Master’s degree in management, and hopes to inspire others with her passion for telling stories through varied digital and print marketing efforts.

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