There’s a common misconception—especially on social media—that cardio is bad for muscle growth. Some fitness influencers will steer you away from it altogether, while others push High-Intensity Interval Training (HIIT), Low-Intensity Steady State (LISS), or interval training as the best fat-loss methods.
This is the first part of a two-part series. In this article, we’ll break down the differences between aerobic and cardiovascular training, and in the next, we’ll dive into the pros and cons of HIIT, LISS, and interval training.
What’s the Difference Between Aerobics and Cardiovascular Training?
Understanding the distinction between aerobic training and cardio is key to optimizing your workouts.
Aerobics: Sustained, Low-to-Moderate Intensity Exercise
Aerobic exercises involve continuous movement with minimal rest, such as running, swimming, biking, and jump rope. Since you need to sustain activity for an extended period, aerobic workouts are generally less intense at the start and gradually build in intensity over time.
✅ Key Benefit: Strengthens the cardiovascular system by improving oxygen delivery and endurance.
Cardiovascular Training: High-Intensity Heart Work
Cardio training—often used interchangeably with aerobic training—specifically focuses on elevating your heart rate to 80%+ of its maximum. This forces the heart muscle to work harder, much like how lifting heavier weights builds stronger muscles.
✅ Key Benefit: Strengthens the heart by increasing its ability to pump blood efficiently.
Can Running or Jump Rope Be Both Aerobic and Cardiovascular?
Yes! The intensity determines whether an activity falls into the aerobic or cardiovascular category. For example:
Jumping rope at a slow, steady pace for 10+ minutes? → Aerobic Training
Jumping rope in short, high-speed bursts with minimal rest? → Cardiovascular Training
Both have their place in a well-rounded fitness routine! In the next article, we’ll explore which method (HIIT, LISS, or interval training) best suits your goals. Stay tuned! 🚀
Comments