When you hit the gym, you likely have goals about what you want to accomplish from your training. Perhaps your goal is to lift as much weight as possible. On the other hand, you may be more focused on maintaining activity for a longer period of time. One goal requires strength training while the other requires endurance training. Check out our services at EIM Personal Training.
Difference Between Strength And Endurance Training
So, what’s the difference between the two and which should you choose? Keep reading to learn all the details.
What Is Strength Training?
As the name implies, strength training is focused on building muscle strength. Athletes who focus on strength training will see muscle growth and an increase in strength and power. The result of strength training is larger muscles and the ability to lift heavier weights.
If you want to focus on strength training, you should lift heavier weights for fewer reps. The ideal rep range for hypertrophy, or muscle growth, is typically between 4 to 8 reps. You should also be lifting a weight that is heavy enough to make your final rep very difficult. Lifting weights that are too light will not result in the strength gains you are looking for. Done correctly, this type of training will lead to an increase in muscle size and strength.
What Is Endurance Training?
Endurance training can be extremely beneficial for performing everyday tasks. Imagine climbing a few flights of stairs without getting winded or having enough energy to play soccer with your kids in the backyard. Endurance training can help you accomplish these things!
To train for endurance, you will generally want to perform a lower-intensity task for a longer period of time. Examples of this could include jogging or brisk walking, jumping rope, cycling, or swimming. Endurance is built over time, so you will want to start slow and build your way up to performing these activities for longer amounts of time. If you attempt to run five miles on your first training day, you are likely to get discouraged. However, you might be surprised at how quickly you can build your endurance with the right training regimen.
Key Differences Between Strength And Endurance Training
The main difference between strength and endurance training is the amount of time required to perform the activity. If your goal is to lift a barbell one time with as much weight as possible, you will want to focus on strength training. On the other hand, endurance training is focused on being able to sustain an activity for longer periods of time. If you want to be able to run a marathon, then endurance training should be your focus.
You should also know that it is possible to work on both strength and endurance training at the same time. You can structure your workouts to include elements of both types of training. The key is to make sure that you are not overtraining. Make sure you are getting plenty of rest and splitting your workouts appropriately, as overtraining can lead to muscle fatigue and injury.
The Bottom Line On Strength And Endurance Training
Both strength and endurance training have wonderful health benefits, and your focus should really be determined by your underlying goals. With the right training plan, you can build both strength and endurance by working in elements from each type of training. If you need help putting together the perfect plan for your goals, contact EIM Personal Training today. We will work with you to develop a customized plan that will allow you to hit all your athletic goals.