Lifting heavy vs. cross training

lilylee2
lilylee2 Posts: 13 Member
in Fitness and Exercise
Hi there
I was wondering about people's opinions on doing heavy lifting vs. cross training. I really like like weight lifting (when I actually do it!) and I know the results can be fantastic with little to no cardio. Anytime I've hired a personal trainer they have always been big on cross training type activities. For example, do a bunch of shoulder presses then 20 jumping jacks, repeat.

I am not a big fan of cardio and was wondering what you guys think of strictly doing weights.

thanks for any input

L.

Replies

  • tyrsnbdr
    tyrsnbdr Posts: 234 Member
    What are your Goals?

    Cardio to me is doing more that 8 reps. I find cardio... boring.
  • SHBoss1673
    SHBoss1673 Posts: 7,161 Member
    I concur with tyrsnbdr, without knowing what you're trying to accomplish, we can't really give an opinion.
  • jwdieter
    jwdieter Posts: 2,582 Member
    A lot of trainers do not know how to lift, and only teach cheerleading. I'd guess somewhere around 20-1.
  • MoreBean13
    MoreBean13 Posts: 8,701 Member
    Uh, are these just random trainers you're overhearing or people queued in to your actual goals?

    It sounds like you know your goals and how to get them. Ignore the "fitness industry" noise.
  • broox80
    broox80 Posts: 1,195 Member
    I prefer cross training myself, but I am just really wanting to shed weight and tone up some and I can do it anywhere with just my own body weight. I think that is the biggest plus for me. I cant afford to go to a gym, but I can do stuff at home with out having to buy a ton of equipment.
  • hearthemelody
    hearthemelody Posts: 1,025 Member
    I am just doing this: http://www.myfitnesspal.com/topics/show/560459-stronglifts-5x5-summary

    and I love it! First time I have EVER looked forward to a workout in my life!
  • jacque930
    jacque930 Posts: 122 Member
    Bump for the Strong Lifts Link
  • micheleb15
    micheleb15 Posts: 1,418 Member
    I only lift, with one day of HIIT. I love lifting, I see results faster and I look forward to it. Do what you will keep up with. If I thought I had to do cardio each time at the gym, I wouldn't go. I really do dislike it. Spending the day hiking, kayaking or paddle-boarding is so much better for me.
  • amastre
    amastre Posts: 176 Member
    I am all about the heavy lifting. First off, that's really what has changed my body for the better, plus it is just so much more satisfying than cardio to me. (I do cardio, but only because I am trying to make weight for a competition).

    For certain exercises, active rest such as a bodyweight exercise between sets may be beneficial, but I tend to just stick to pure rest when I am resting between sets of my main lift of the day.
  • lilylee2
    lilylee2 Posts: 13 Member
    Thanks for the replies. My goal is to lose body fat. I'd ideally like to lose 10 lbs but I know it's not necessary to lose the weight on the scale. I've seen great results from people on here who started lifting and weigh the same as when they started but are much leaner.

    I'm currently around 142lbs and 5' 5" tall. I have a small frame so can easily be 10 to 15 pounds lighter. Years ago I worked with a trainer who was a female body builder. I had great results and I pretty much know what I have to do. It's nice to have someone help to push you. A couple of other times I've had trainers they really were the cheerleader types and focused quite a bit on burpees and jumping jacks. Good for stamina building but not some much on the toning.

    I've taken a look at NROLfor Women and Stronglifts. I need something to follow otherwise I get off track and lose focus. Any opinions on these two plans?

    L

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