Cardio vs Strength

So you walk into the gym, but now what? You feel awkward and out of place as everyone there are these huge bulky guys and almost non existent girls, you take the safe option that you know how to work- the treadmill, stay for a little bit and than slowly sneak away.

Whether you've been going to the gym or a day, or for as long as you can remember, we're all guilty of feeling a little out of place at the start. I personally feel like the gym starts out as an obstacle, and if you stick with it can end up being a part of your daily routine that you can actually enjoy (most of the time that is). We all have days where we wake up and really just don't feel up to hitting the gym, on those days you have to really push through and go, but if you don't have the push for the day, don't worry about it! As much as our bodies need exercise, they need rest as well. If you feel like you have no energy to workout one day your body is trying to tell you something, listen to it.

There really isn't any right or wrong when it comes to exercise, just get moving! If you aren't the biggest fan of actually going to the gym, go on a walk with a friend, play a sport outside, or even take a dance class! When it comes to getting active the options are endless. 

Now the big question.. cardio or strength?! My answer to you is both! Muscle is so important for your health long term, as when you are resting your body will burn more calories with less effort when your muscle percentage is higher. That's where strength importance comes into play. There is a huge debate throughout society whether cardio is necessary, and this is my opinion on it all - for me, being a 20 year old year, cardio is a big part of me maintaining a weight i am happy with, but along with that it helps my cardiovacular strength which isn't something people usually think of when they do cardio. Being young, we don't really think twice about what our health is going to be like 30 years from now, but we should. Even if you have no weight to loose, it is still so important to do even 15 minutes of cardio everyday to keep your internal health at peak, preventing heart disease, and even stroke down the road. So my answer to cardio vs. strength? Both! Like i talked about in my first post everything is about balance and moderation, and that applies with fitness as well. Mix it up, do some cardio 3 days of the week, and strength for 2, or any combination that fits you and your lifestyle! 

Check back next week to see some of my favorite cardio and strength workouts!