Body · Training
Why cardio matters even if you lift
The short version
Cardio trains your heart, lungs and ability to recover between efforts. Lifting doesn't fully cover that.
A little cardio won't kill your gains. It'll probably help your training.
The full version
Different qualities
Resistance training and cardiovascular training overlap, but they develop different things. Lifting builds strength and muscle. Cardio builds your ability to sustain effort — your heart, lungs and the muscles' ability to use oxygen — and to recover between efforts.
It helps your lifting too
Better cardiovascular fitness can help you recover between sets and sessions, handle longer workouts and feel less wrecked by conditioning work. For most people, moderate amounts of cardio don't get in the way of building muscle or strength.
You don't have to pick a side
You don't have to choose between being a lifter or a cardio person. Walking, cycling, running, rowing, sport and conditioning can all contribute. Most of it can be easy. The best option is the one you'll keep doing.
What actually matters
Add some cardio you can repeat — even regular walking counts. If sport is your goal, the conditioning in ATHLETE or AFL is built for that.
“Doing cardio won't revoke your gym membership.”
Key takeaways
- 01Lifting and cardio train different things
- 02Cardio helps recovery between efforts
- 03Most cardio can be easy
- 04Walking counts
Related
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