Anyone who has ever worked out knows that there is a big difference between strength training and exercise. Strength training is all about building muscle and strength, while exercise is about improving cardiovascular fitness and burning calories.
Of course, the two activities are not mutually exclusive, and many people engage in both strength training and exercise as part of a healthy lifestyle. However, there are some key differences that anyone embarking on a new workout routine should be aware of.
Strength training involves lifting weights or using resistance bands to create resistance. The goal is to build muscle mass and achieve strength gains. This type of activity is usually done in short bursts, with rest periods in between sets. What are some examples of strength training?
Lifting weights
Using resistance bands
Bodyweight exercises like push-ups and pull-ups
Weight machines
Exercise, on the other hand, is typically done at a moderate intensity for a sustained period of time. The goal is to improve cardiovascular fitness and/or burn calories. Some examples of exercise include:
Walking
Jogging
Biking
Swimming
Elliptical training
As you can see, there are some key differences between strength training and exercise. It's important to choose the type of activity that best suits your goals. If you're looking to build muscle mass and achieve strength gains, then strength training is the way to go. In contrast, exercise is typically performed at a moderate intensity for an extended period of time. Cardio activities like running, biking, or swimming raise your heart rate and get your blood flowing. The goal of exercise is to improve cardiovascular fitness and burn calories. Both strength training and exercise have their own benefits. Strength training can help to build lean muscle mass, while exercise can help to improve heart health and boost weight loss. Ultimately, the best workout routine is one that includes both strength training and exercise. By combining the two activities, you can maximize your results and enjoy all the benefits that each has to offer!