Cardio or weight training, the choice is yours

Header image for Interrobang article
There is a constant debate on what the best type of exercise is for your body, what will help you burn the most calories, make you leaner, etc. Despite the ongoing debate, people who exercise regularly can still find it difficult to navigate through all the quackery. The Interrobang will explain some of the benefits of each and how you should incorporate them into your daily workout routine. “They go hand in hand. One has to fuel the other so it's not all about strength because we need some amount of strength and some amount of endurance or at some point you will plateau,” Karen Nixon-Carroll, Program Manager at the Fanshawe Wellness and Fitness Centre, said. Health Canada recommends at least 150 minutes of exercise each week for adults. It is also recommended that you get sufficient rest in between your workouts to allow your body to repair itself and prevent injury.

Resistance/weight training

What is resistance training?

According to an article by eMedicine health, exper ts for everyday emergencies: “Resistance Training”, resistance training improves endurance and strengthens your muscles and bones. By using your own body weight, weights and resistance bands, you create microtears in your muscle cells that must be repaired so that they are stronger than before. This results in increased muscle mass. For more information, please visit emedicinehealth.com/strength_training/ar ticle_em.htm#what_is_ resistance_training.

Why should you do it?

According to research by the Mayo Clinic, “Weight training. It 's all about technique.”, weight training increases muscle mass, consequentially reducing your body fat. Muscle mass decreases with age so getting into the routine of weight training while you're younger will help you reap the benefits when you get older. With increased muscle mass you will be stronger, maintain bone density, bet ter manage your weight, and improve your metabolism. For more information, please visit mayoclinic.org/healthy-lifestyle/ fitness/in-depth/weight-training/art-20047116?pg=2.

How often should you do it?

Nixon-Carroll recommends at least two to three sessions per week of a basic full body routine for a duration of anywhere between 20 to 60 minutes depending on the exercise. Training specific muscle groups on certain days isn't necessary unless you have a very specific goal. Full body is recommended for those just star ting out and wanting to increase their fitness level.