Comparing Strength Training to Aerobic Exercise

Many people looking to get started on a program to improve their health sometimes ask which is better – aerobics or strength training? The simple answer is both! Strength training and aerobic exercise are both important components in achieving optimal physical fitness. It is necessary to understand their differences and how they work together in providing health benefits.

Strength Training and Aerobics are Both Important

Aerobic exercise involves activities and exercises that make your heart and lungs work harder than during regular daily activities. Most aerobic exercise keeps your whole body moving continuously and often in a rhythmic pattern. Common examples of this workout type are walking, biking, dancing, skating, and rowing.

Engaging in regular aerobic exercise results in better efficiently from your heart, lungs, and blood vessels. This also makes it easier for your heart to pump blood and oxygen to the active parts of your body. Another great benefit is increased levels of stamina. Aerobic training provides many health improvements, including lower blood pressure, and reduced risk of heart disease and diabetes.

Conversely, strength training typically involves weightlifting or the use of training machines and equipment. At one time it was mainly something only athletes did, but this is no longer the case. Strength training is now much more widespread among the general population. More people now incorporate this training into their fitness regimen.

Strength training is desirable because it helps keep bones strong and promotes a physically active lifestyle.  It also helps to increase energy levels and lessens the risk of injury. Increased muscular strength and endurance can also result from strength training. This allows a person to work longer before tiring and assists in increasing bone strength.

To achieve the optimal health benefits of training, around 150 minutes of moderate aerobic activity and 75 minutes of vigorous aerobic activity should be performed per week. For strength training, all major muscle groups should be worked out twice weekly. It is also important to schedule rest days to allow the muscles to recover.

Contact Activation Fitness today at  (847) 730-5531 to inquire about strength training and aerobic classes. Their highly professional staff is led by owner and Certified Personal Trainer Steve Dam.  Steve has nearly 25 years of experience in the fitness field and personal training. He also brings a solid background in Athletic Training and Orthopedics. Steve and the entire staff can help motivate you to reach all your fitness goals and increase your strength and endurance.

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