You Asked: Why does strength training sometimes feel like cardio?
Strength training can take my breath away sometimes, what’s the deal?
Have you ever experienced this?
You finish a set of goblet squats, tackle 30 seconds of kettlebell swings, or crush a combination movement like a lunge with a press at the top, and suddenly find yourself completely gasping for air.
A few of my clients have said the same thing recently. Once they catch their breath, I’ll usually hear “OMG I’m so out of breath,” “why does this strength training feel like cardio?” or some combination of the two.
Here’s what you should remember:
Strength training can be cardio
(and don’t we love it!).
It feels counterintuitive. How many of us sat in gym class believing that cardio was anything other than running laps or riding your bike? :: Raises my own hand ::
But strength training IS cardio and it can challenge your heart and lungs just as much as your muscles.
Big power movements and combination exercises like swings, squats to presses or deadlifts recruit huge muscle groups, and mimic cardio intervals by making your heart work extra hard but for a short amount of time.
That’s because this kind of training taps into a different energy system in your body.
Energy Systems
Steady state cardio - aka running or biking - uses the aerobic energy system. This system uses oxygen to create energy during steady, endurance-based activities. It’s efficient and sustainable over time.
Strength training leverages anaerobic energy, which pulls from stored energy in your muscles. This system lacks endurance efficiency but makes your muscles, heart and lungs work extra hard through shorter, more intense efforts. It builds power in your body.
The net/net: Strength training builds power, while steady state cardio builds endurance. Both matter and when combined together, they create a well-rounded fitness routine and a more balanced, strong and resilient YOU!
