By Shane Cook, Founder & Co-Owner, Active8
When it comes to choosing the best fitness programme, some clients ask me what is better – Strength Training or Cardio workouts in Bristol. I say both.
Depending on the client’s bespoke fitness goals and wellbeing requirements.
I advise clients that both exercise forms offer health benefits, and it is important to understand the differences between strength training and cardio.
What is Strength Training?
When our personal trainers include Strength Training in a client’s bespoke fitness plan, it involves exercises that work muscles against resistance.
This can include lifting weights, resistance bands, bodyweight exercises and various strength training machines.
I tell our clients that one of the main benefits of Strength Training is building muscle mass and increasing overall strength.
Regular Strength Training workouts in Bristol with the Active8 teams in Henleaze and Clifton can improve bone density, support joint health and boost overall metabolism. This is vital for clients as they age.
As a client, if your goal is to build muscle, improve body composition, or increase physical strength, I recommend Strength Training in Bristol.
What is Cardio?
Cardiovascular exercise (Cardio) increases the heart rate and gets blood pumping faster throughout the body.
Popular forms of Cardio exercise include running, cycling, swimming, and brisk walking.
I tell clients that the main benefits of Cardio exercise include improved heart health, increased stamina, better blood circulation, and enhanced lung capacity.
Cardio also helps to manage stress, improve mood and support weight management.
When I work with clients who want to move and improve their endurance, Cardio is an excellent part of a fitness programme.
Is Strength Training or Cardio better for health?
There is no definitive answer to this, but I remind clients that each one has its merits depending on the type of results they are hoping to achieve.
Strength Training is ideal for building muscle, improving strength and supporting bone health.
Cardio is suited to improving cardiovascular fitness, endurance levels and stamina.
Utilising both Strength Training and Cardio is a fitness plan provides a balanced approach to overall health and fitness for our clients in Bristol.
Combining both forms of exercise is a popular option for clients looking to develop a stronger, leaner, fitter, and healthier body, at any age.
How do I combine Strength Training and Cardio?
This is a common question I hear from clients working with us at Active8.
A balanced fitness routine may include Strength Training two days per week, alongside regular Cardio activity.
General health guidelines for most adults advocate at least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity cardio per week, plus muscle-strengthening exercises on at least two days.
I stress to all clients that they need to start at a level that suits their fitness, to allow time for recovery, and gradually increase activity as they get stronger.
To see how we deliver strength training for beginners in Bristol, I advise you to read this article.
It is also worth considering longevity-focused fitness programmes, which we also offer at Active8. Find out more here.
To find out more about how our PTs can give you Strength Training or Cardio fitness programmes in Bristol, please email paul@brcjobs.com.