You know you need to exercise for faster weight loss – but what kind of workout should you focus on? Many people split into two camps: strength training or cardio. But what does the science say?
Cardio is Weight Loss King
To lose weight, you need to burn more calories than you consume. And cardio simply burns more calories than strength training.
One study comparing the two divided previously sedentary people into three groups: cardio, cardio and strength, and strength training. After twelve weeks, the cardio and cardio/strength group lost almost 4 pounds on average, whereas the strength-only group gained one pound.
However, the strength group improved their body composition by losing fat while adding muscle. Since muscle is denser than fat, this means they could have lost inches even though the scale didn’t budge.
Overall, cardio is king for weight loss. Additionally, walking is the exercise of choice for the majority of people successful at maintaining weight loss. If you want to walk your way to weight loss, consider investing in one of our treadmills, so you can get your workout in no matter what the weather is outside.
HIIT versus Steady State Cardio
There are also two types of cardio – High Intensity Interval Training (HIIT) and steady state cardio. Steady state cardio is what most people think of as cardio, moderate activity at a steady pace. In HIIT workouts, you alternate short time periods of all-out work with rest.
Because HIIT elevates your heart rate so high, it can be a great option for high calorie burn when you are short on time. But it may also be too difficult for beginners and increases risk of injury.
Many experts recommend a mix of steady state cardio and HIIT training to maximize results.
For HIIT workouts, rowers and stationary bikes are easy to increase your speed for periods of work and rest.
Ready to Lose Weight?
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