Cardio versus strength training: opening a can of worms

Of course, it’s best to do both. But that conclusion would make the story boring, wouldn’t it?

There is this dude — Papa Swolio — on Instagram whose entire content revolves around saying, “Go to the fucking gym.” His stuff is humorous, so I don’t mind the repetitiveness of it. Occasionally, he does more serious videos where he answers questions about fitness and nutrition. In one of the recent ones, he debated whether strength training or cardio should come first and concluded, as expected, that lifting weights is the foundation, and cardio should be used as a seasoning (“salt or butter on your steak”). If you watch the video, he’s more derogatory about cardio than I summarized, although he does say that you should also do cardio for your overall health.

Well, I’m of the opposite opinion. Cardio is the foundation. Let me repeat again that it doesn't have to be “either-or” but we are here debating because why not add to the noise on the internet. Also, I’m very biased, as a runner.

Several reasons:

First, it’s more practical and actionable. Whether you’re a teenager, middle-aged, or a senior citizen, there is nothing you need to step outside and start improving your health. Walk, jog, hike, run. On your own, with your partner, or with your dog. No gym is required. You only need a pair of sports shoes. ‘Actionability’ matters in a world that’s always busy and in which we struggle with problems such as procrastination. You can do thirty…