Fat Loss: Cardio or Strength Training?

I am forever getting asked what is better for weight loss, weights or cardiovascular training?

Well the simple answer is both!

This is because cardiovascular exercise like swimming or running will burn more calories whilst doing the exercise because of the prolonged increase in heart rate compared to the resistance training.

Resistance training however will help increase your fat loss because of the increase in resting metabolic rate after the exercise has finished, meaning that you burn more calories at rest. Which may help keep the weight off in the long term.

So now you know why each form of exercise is needed, then how much you should do?

Well the American college of sports medicine recommends that you do 3-4 days a week with all muscles being trained for 3 sets of 12-15 reps.

The NHS recommends that you do at least 150 minutes of moderate intensity activity a week or 75 minutes of vigorous intensity activity a week.

If you would like to discuss more about planning your exercise schedule, why not ask Ben when you next see him!