Weight training or cardio?

I am a woman aiming to lose about 10-15 pounds. I was wondering, if I have only a small amount of time to fit in exercise, would it be best to do cardio or weight training? I enjoy running a lot, but I know that weight training keeps your metabolism elevated for a long time after the workout is over. I know that a program incorporating both is favorable, but I do not really have the time for that. Therefore, which should I prioritize?

TOM SAYS:

If you pushed me to say which one I think is more beneficial I think I would lean towards weight training. It builds muscle which is key for burning fat.

That said, if you really enjoy running then by all means do that!

I think exercise that you enjoy is infinitely better than exercise you don't enjoy. It's more likely that you'll stick with it...which, in the end, is the only thing that counts.

But there's no reason to say that you should only do cardio or only weights. You can alternate your workouts, cardio one day, weights the next. That way you get more variety and the benefits of both worlds.

You might even find that you begin to enjoy weight training just as much as running. Once you begin to see changes to your body shape it can become very addictive!

Another good solution, if you are pressed for time, is circuit training. Click here to read more about circuit training

You could also try some 10 minute workouts from our e-book. They don't require any equipment so you can do them on the spot and be all finished in no-time flat.

All the best
Tom