If I had the choice between strength and cardio and could only do one thing for the rest of my life, I would always choose strength.
In my 20s, if I saw a barbell in the rack traditionally set up for a squat, I'd probably be more worried about how I looked aesthetically than about the way I moved.
I would have taken the barbell out of the rack and more than likely hit up some bicep curls instead of doing the functional base movement patterns that I should be doing to keep me moving longer later on in life.
Now as a fitness professional, I always look to do the big compound base movements at least once a week.
Base strength movements such as:
Squats
Deadlifts
Bench Press.
When you hit these big movements it is important that you train under stress but with a high intensity that works for your body. Don’t try to copy the person training next to you. Working to your ability is key. Over time you can build your strength but the basics are to move well with good range and good form without pain.
Building Foundational Strength
By regularly doing squats, deadlifts and benchpress exercises you can build great foundational strength and functionality for day-to-day life.
Having good foundational strength is so important especially as you get older. Simple things like picking heavy things up or getting in and out of a chair can become difficult if you don't work on keeping your muscles strong.
If I think about the most important thing to me as I get older it is to be able to move well without pain. We regular strength training I believe I can achieve this.
Cardiovascular Fitness Can Be Achieved With Strength Training
Cardiovascular fitness is great and it is really important for heart health, lung health and cardiovascular health. You can however get the same benefits with your strength training if you are working at the right intensities, with the right load and with the correct form.
Strength Training - The Cheat Code To Weight Loss
If your goal is to lose weight and feel confident in your body, strength training should be your focus. While cardio has its place, building muscle is the real game-changer.
The reason is simple:
The more muscle you build, the more energy your body requires, even when you are resting.
This means your metabolism increases as you gain lean muscle, helping you burn more calories throughout the day.
Over time, consistent strength training not only helps shape and sculpt your physique. It also creates a lasting impact on your body’s ability to shed fat and maintain a healthy weight.
It’s not just about looking good. It’s about building a stronger, more efficient body from the inside out.
Cardiovascular work only lasts for as long as you are doing that exercise.
Achieving Your Strength Goals With ATP Fitness Felixstowe
Everyone who joins our gym is treated as an individual. Throughout our training classes, we can adjust any movements to your fitness ability but will always look for progress.
We are here to help so why not come in and get coached by someone like myself or our other experienced coaches here? We will guide you through the progressions and the regressions. Getting an understanding of where you are right now and where you want to be.
Fitness is a long game. Don't look for quick fixes, take your time and remember consistency always wins!
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