Exercise is one of the most important factors for improving quality of life and increasing longevity. However, it’s essential to consider the benefits of both resistance and cardiovascular training in order to create a comprehensive training plan and a balanced individual. When programmed correctly and with special attention to recovery needs, cardiovascular and resistance training can work synergistically to improve performance, enhance health, and reduce the risk of chronic diseases.
The Benefits of Cardiovascular Training vs. Resistance Training
Cardiovascular training can improve heart health by enhancing the output and efficiency of the heart. This means more blood circulation, and consequently, more oxygen being delivered throughout the body. It also helps to lower bad cholesterol levels and increase good cholesterol, reducing the risk of cardiovascular disease. In terms of respiratory function, cardiovascular training increases lung capacity, which again allows more oxygen into the bloodstream, giving us more energy and making breathing easier. Over time, we become more efficient at using oxygen, which enables us to perform physical tasks for longer periods without getting tired. Additionally, cardiovascular training improves metabolic health by increasing the body’s ability to use stored fat for energy, reducing visceral (or harmful) fat in the process.
On the other hand, resistance training helps by promoting the growth of new muscle and increasing the size of existing muscle tissue (hypertrophy). It also strengthens bones and increases their density, providing a solid structural foundation for the body, vital for injury prevention. For older adults, resistance training is crucial as it helps prevent and even reverse sarcopenia, the age related loss of muscle mass and strength. This form of training can also improve functional capacity, enabling older adults to perform everyday activities like walking and carrying groceries with ease.
The Synergy Between Cardiovascular and Resistance Training
When we combine cardiovascular and resistance training, we enhance our physiological capabilities and maximise the individual benefits of each training type. This synergy allows us to train our bodies in the most efficient and effective ways possible.
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