When discussing a healthy lifestyle, two common forms of exercise that take plenty of attention from the masses are strength training and cardio. Each arrives with its own array of benefits, but which is really better for men’s health? According to the physicians of Evan Bass Men’s Clinic, while both types of exercise have their advantages, understanding their contribution to general wellness can be helpful for men in making the right decision that best complements their aims.
The Advantages of Strength Training
Strength training, aka resistance training, is an exercise that enhances muscle strength, endurance, and mass through the use of weights, resistance bands, or bodyweight exercises. For men, strength training has numerous health advantages, particularly as they grow older. One of the main advantages is the maintenance of their lean muscle mass. As men get older, they naturally experience muscle loss, resulting in a reduction in metabolism and overall strength. By adding strength training to their workout routine, men can fight back against this decline, increasing metabolism and preserving muscle mass.
In addition, strength training improves bone density, which lowers the likelihood of osteoporosis, a disease commonly found in elderly people. It also significantly contributes to improving joint stability, which can avoid injuries. Another major advantage is its favorable effect on the regulation of hormone health, such as testosterone, which is vital for overall health in men.
The Advantages of Cardio
Cardiovascular exercise, or cardio, involves running, cycling, swimming, brisk walking, etc. Cardio exercise is aimed at maximizing heart and lung efficiency. Cardio is necessary for enhancing cardiovascular health because it makes the heart strong, reduces blood pressure, and minimizes the risks of cardiac attack or any heart disease—a problem men are most prone to when they are older.
According to Evan Bass Men’s Clinic, cardio also helps with fat loss and can assist with weight control, so it is an important part of any exercise program for losing unwanted body fat. Consistent cardio can enhance endurance and stamina, so daily tasks such as climbing stairs or grocery shopping become less strenuous. For men who want to enhance mental insight and decrease stress, cardio is also an excellent method for improving mood by releasing endorphins, which are also referred to as the “feel-good” hormones.
Strength Training or Cardio: Find a Balance
Although both strength training and cardio offer different advantages, the ideal solution for men’s health usually occurs where both are carried out in a balance. Strength training by itself can strengthen muscle and boost metabolism, but cardio specifically addresses heart function and fat burning. Ideally, men will seek a balanced exercise regime that incorporates both.
Pairing either form into a weekly routine, which means performing cardio three times and strength training two or three times —can bring about the best long-term outcomes. With such balance, men can have enhanced muscle strength, cardiovascular fitness, burning of fat, and overall well-being.
Finally, both cardio and strength training have their own position within a man’s workout program. Consequently, maintaining a balanced strategy is the key to achieving and sustaining ultimate health.