Cardio vs Strength Training? Please help :)

CindyBethD

I'm on a mission to lose ten pounds...I've failed in the past but I'm determined to accomplish the goal this time around. I'm currently doing hour long spinning classes twice a week, and on Mon/Wed/Fri I lift weights for my upper body. So what I want to know is which is more important to lose those 10 pounds, cardio or strength training? I'd really appreciate the tips...

I'm also feeling kinda discouraged because last week at my weigh-in I lost 3 pounds but this morning the scale said that I gained one...which I don't see how because I've been working hard and eating right

BrianSharpe

Both are equally important, they compliment each other.

Cardio burns more calories but strength builds lean muscle mass which, in turn, boosts your daily caloric needs. Don't think strength vs cardio, think strength + cardio.

dlwyatt82

It depends a lot on what your body composition is right now. If your focus is solely on the weight on the scale, then cardio will help you more, but you're going to be losing muscle in addition to fat.

With proper strength training, you may actually gain weight, but still lose inches and look better. When you're at a roughly healthy body fat percentage, it's time to start ignoring the scale and just go by what the tape measure and mirror say.

ninerbuff

Both are equally important, they compliment each other.

Cardio burns more calories but strength builds lean muscle mass which, in turn, boosts your daily caloric needs. Don't think strength vs cardio, think strength + cardio.

Agree. Will also add that the determining factor of weight loss will be in the consistency of your nutrition. The less consistent you are, the longer it will take to lose the 10lbs. So keep your calorie deficit consistent.

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