Why You're Nuts If Strength Training Isn't a Part of Your Cardio Workout Plan :

OK, now this might not make a whole lot of sense at first.

You're looking to do a good cardio workout plan, but you should be doing strength training? Aren't the two pretty much the exact opposite of each other? How is strength training going to help with your cardio? And what if you don't want to build muscle, but just "tone up"?

First of all, everybody from skinny dudes to women seem to be afraid that if they start a basic strength training program, that they're going to turn into a muscle-bound freak overnight. Ain't gonna happen, folks. The guys (and most people conjure up thoughts of pro bodybuilders) that have those kind of physiques have likely spent a lot of years (and many times a lot of drugs) building those muscles. Don't think that if you do a few sets of presses and rows that all of a sudden you're going to turn into the Incredible Hulk.

So, you don't have that to worry about.

Next, strength training helps your body by making you stronger. Cardio training (if done via most "traditional" cardio workout plans - running, elliptical machines, stationary cycling, etc.) will indeed improve your cardiovascular capabilities, meaning you'll have improved heart and lung function.

Which is great.

But, what good is a strong heart and strong lungs of literally the rest of the body is weak? Sure, you've got good breathing, but if you get worn out just brining in the groceries, then what's the point?

I hate to use a way overplayed comparison, but take a look at many marathon runners. These guys have amazing cardio, right? Yeah, and they all have the muscular physiques of a 10 year old girl.

As the old saying goes, "everything in moderation". It don't do you any good to have that kind of cardio, if you don't have a strength to go along with it.

And lastly, what if you could "kill two birds with one stone", and develop strength and your cardio at the same time? Think of this - the last time you were moving, when you picked up something heavy (say a real heavy box, a chair, or whatever) and carried it a good distance, weren't you breathing really heavy at the end? You bet you were.

Well, a properly designed workout could not only develop strength, but it could also be your cardio workout plan as well.

Don't just worry about your cardio - make sure you're getting stronger, too.