🏋️‍♂️ Cardio vs. Strength Training: Which Is Better (and What Actually Matters)?

The cardio vs. strength debate has been raging in the fitness world for years and honestly? It’s one of the most overcomplicated topics out there.

So instead of picking sides, let’s break it down simply, based on what actually matters:

✅ Your goals✅ What you enjoy

🎯 Start with Your Goals

Before we go into the intricacies into “what’s better,” ask yourself:

What are you actually trying to achieve?

• Want to lose fat?

• Build strength?

• Improve heart health?

• Move better as you age?

• Just feel fitter without hating your life?

• Or simply it's something you enjoy the most?

❤️Enjoyment

This part doesn’t get talked about enough:

If you hate lifting weights, why force it 5 days a week?If you dread running, why punish yourself on the treadmill?

Here’s the truth:The best workout plan is the one you’ll actually stick to and maintain long term.

So if you love jogging? Great, keep jogging.If the thought of lifting weights bores you to tears? You don’t have to turn into a weightlifter.

But here's the catch...

Even if strength training isn’t your favorite, you still need a little of it.

💪 Why Everyone Should Do Some Strength Training (Yes, Even You)

You don’t need to lift heavy four times a week for an hour.

Just 2 x 40 minute sessions a week can completely change the game for you, especially if you’re 35+ and want to remain strong, mobile & fit long term.

Here’s why:

1. Injury PreventionResistance training strengthens your joints, muscles, and connective tissues. This is extra important if you run (or do other high impact activities)

2. Better Mobility + FunctionPerforming compound lifts with good form transfers to real life, you will find you will move better…not just in the gym

3. Boosted MetabolismMuscle burns more calories at rest. So even at 2 sessions/week, you’re building a more efficient body including decreasing risk of metabolic diseases and osteoporosis 

4. Bone Density & AgingAs we age, strength training becomes non-negotiable for preventing osteoporosis and reducing fracture risk.

🧠 So, Which Is Better: Cardio or Strength?

Wrong question.

The better question is:What’s the right mix for your body, your goals, and your lifestyle?

If you love cardio, keep it in. Just add 1–2 strength sessions to protect your joints and keep you strong.If you’re more strength-focused, great — but don’t sleep on walking or light cardio for recovery and heart health.

Final words…Do More of What You Love, Less of What You Don’t

Fitness isn’t all or nothing.You don’t have to train like a bodybuilder or a marathon runner.You just need a plan that you actually enjoy and that supports your long-term health.

If you’re unsure how to create that balance or where to start, we can help.