Perhaps you have come here because you want to double your efforts )and double the results) of your current workout routine. Maybe you also want to simply start a new workout routine that you believe could be beneficial to your health. With that being said, you might have heard that doing weights and cardio is worth combining.
When it comes to exercise, there are various forms of workouts that people engage in, with the most common being weightlifting and cardiovascular exercises. Although these two types of exercises are often approached separately, there is still a debate on whether combining them is beneficial or not.
Read on as we explore the benefits and drawbacks of combining weights and cardio exercises.
The Benefits of Combining Weights and Cardio
Combining weights and cardio exercises has numerous benefits, including:
Increased Calorie Burn
When you engage in cardio exercises, your body burns calories at a higher rate than when weightlifting. On the other hand, weightlifting helps build lean muscle mass, which increases your metabolic rate and burns more calories, even when you are resting. By combining both exercises, you can increase your calorie burn rate significantly.
Improved Cardiovascular Health
Cardio exercises like running, swimming, and cycling improve your cardiovascular health by strengthening your heart and lungs. Weightlifting, on the other hand, improves your muscular strength and endurance, which helps you perform better during cardio exercises. By combining the two, you can improve your cardiovascular health, which is essential for overall well-being.
Reduced Risk of Injury
Weightlifting and cardio exercises involve different types of movements that work different muscle groups in your body. By combining them, you can avoid overusing specific muscle groups, which reduces the risk of injury. Additionally, weightlifting helps strengthen your joints and muscles, which improves your overall stability and reduces the risk of injury during cardio exercises.
The Drawbacks of Combining Weights and Cardio
While combining weights and cardio exercises has numerous benefits, there are also some drawbacks to consider, including:
Increased Fatigue
Combining weights and cardio exercises can be physically demanding, and it can lead to increased fatigue. This is because both exercises require a lot of energy, and when you combine them, you are essentially doubling the energy output required. This can leave you feeling exhausted, especially if you are new to working out.
Reduced Muscle Growth
When you engage in weightlifting exercises, your body requires enough rest to recover and build muscle. Combining weights and cardio exercises can lead to reduced muscle growth, especially if you are not getting enough rest between workouts. This is because cardio exercises burn calories, which your body needs to build muscle.
Overtraining
Combining weights and cardio exercises can lead to overtraining, which can be counterproductive. Overtraining occurs when you engage in too much physical activity without giving your body enough time to recover. This can lead to decreased performance, fatigue, and even injury.
The Verdict: To Combine or Not to Combine?
Yes, combining weights and cardio can be beneficial for overall health and fitness. Weight training helps build muscle mass and strength, while cardio exercises improve cardiovascular health and endurance. Combining the two can result in a more well-rounded workout routine and can also aid in weight loss and management. However, it’s important to consider individual fitness goals and consult with a professional before starting any new exercise routine.
Conclusion
Combining weights and cardio exercises has both numerous benefits and some drawbacks. Therefore, when deciding whether to combine weights and cardio exercises, it is essential to consider the factors that involve your goals, your health, and so on. Also, remember to seek advice from a professional trainer to avoid injury and ensure that you are getting the most out of your workouts.
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