When it comes to exercise, there’s no one-size-fits-all answer. Some people swear by the mental clarity of a long run or brisk walk, while others feel their best after an intense strength-training session. The truth is, both cardio and strength training have incredible benefits, and which one you lean toward often depends on your goals, preferences, and physical needs.
For me, nothing beats a good walk. It’s more than just exercise—it’s a head-to-toe release. With every step, I feel like I’m working every muscle in my body, getting my heart rate up, and clearing my mind. Mentally, it’s my daily therapy session, a chance to sort through my thoughts and put a period at the end of the day.
Walking has become my go-to for physical and mental well-being. But as I’ve grown older (hello, perimenopause!), I’ve realized that managing my health means tailoring my routine to what my body needs. This year, I’m excited to take my walks to the next level with a new addition: a weighted vest.
The weighted vest will add resistance to my walks, helping me strengthen muscles, improve bone density, and elevate my heart rate for an even better workout. It’s a small change, but it feels empowering to add this tool to my routine.
Incorporating Strength Training
While walking is my favorite, I know that strength training is just as important. As we age, building and maintaining muscle mass becomes critical—not just for appearance but for overall health and longevity.
That’s why I’ve made it a priority to incorporate weights into my routine four times a week. Whether it’s lifting dumbbells, resistance band exercises, or bodyweight moves like squats and lunges, these sessions complement my cardio and help me stay strong and balanced.
Strength training has taught me patience and discipline. It’s about more than just building muscle; it’s about building confidence and resilience. And the best part? It’s never too late to start.
When it comes to choosing between cardio and strength training, there’s no right or wrong answer. The key is finding what works for you—what aligns with your goals, what fits into your lifestyle, and what feels good for your body. YOU HAVE EVERYTHING YOU NEED TO START YOUR FITNESS JOURNEY
Here are a few questions to help you reflect on your own journey:
- What are your fitness goals? Are you looking to improve endurance, build strength, lose weight, or simply feel better overall?
- What does your body need? If you have physical constraints, some exercises might not be an option. Tailor your routine to work with your body, not against it.
- What do you enjoy? The best exercise is the one you’ll stick with. Whether it’s walking, lifting, swimming, yoga, or dancing, choose something you look forward to.
Benefits of Both Cardio and Strength Training
Cardio Benefits
- Improves heart health and endurance
- Boosts mental clarity and reduces stress
- Supports weight management
- Low-impact options like walking are accessible to most
Strength Training Benefits
- Builds muscle mass and increases metabolism
- Strengthens bones and reduces the risk of osteoporosis
- Enhances balance and flexibility
- Boosts confidence and functional fitness for daily life
We’re a couple weeks into the new year now and it’s a great time to reflect on your fitness journey and what you’d like to focus on in the months ahead. Maybe you want to incorporate more strength training, or perhaps you’re exploring new ways to enjoy cardio. The most important thing is to listen to your body, honor where you are, and stay consistent.
For me, the balance of cardio and strength training has been key to feeling my best. Whether I’m walking with my weighted vest or lifting dumbbells in the living room, each movement is a step toward better health—mentally, emotionally, and physically.
What about you? Are you more of a cardio fan, a strength-training enthusiast, or do you enjoy a mix of both?
RosalynLynn
Be you so you can be free.