Question: Which is better: weight-lifting or cardio? I've always heard aerobic exercise is important, but I've been reading a lot of stories about the health benefits of building muscle. What do you say?
Dr. Hibberd's answer:
Reasonable muscle bulk is fine but it is the cardio that will increase your reserve and enable more efficient use of your body's normal protective mechanisms against stroke and heart attack. Vascular disease is prevented by cardio, not by muscle building alone.
Excessive muscle bulk is actually harmful and can lead to early stress on joint tissue, tendons, ligaments, and bones that are not always easily reversed. You will live a more productive, comfortable, and healthier life with aerobic exercise and mild weight training.
Excessive weight training may actually have early benefits by boosting metabolism but those gains are lost with overindulgence.
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