The short answer to this trick question is you should be doing both.  However, as we reach midlife it is resistance training you should prioritise.  Read on to find out why.  

So, here’s a thing. At the age of 60 something I’ve just had some annual tests done at the doc’s. It’s not worth skipping them at this age. And the results?

• Blood pressure normal.

• Cholesterol level normal. Pleased about that. It was high this time last year. How I reduced it may be the subject of a future blog.

• Resting heart rate, 53. 53!

That’s pretty good per se and not just for my age. The curious thing is I don’t run (2 resurfaced hips make this difficult), I don’t cycle (chronically injured right knee develops fluid within minutes when I cycle), I don’t swim (I blame hips, knees, and shoulder, plus I don’t really like it). Nor do I do the satanic cardio variants in gyms.

So how is Smug Features retaining a good level of cardio-vascular fitness?

About cardio.  Before I answer the question, I wish to emphasise that undertaking any form of cardio- vascular exercise is a Good Thing. I’m not seeking to diminish it.

When driving around Darras Hall and Ponteland I remain envious of the energetic runners for whom it remains an essential part of their workout routine. I would if I could, occasionally.

Same for the MAMILs and MAWILs (middle-aged men/women in lycra). Good on you if you are cycling around the county rather than vegetating in a pub at lunchtime (although a bit of colour modesty would help).

And you swimmers, possibly the best all round fitness routine?

The benefits of resistance training

I maintain a good level of cardio-vascular fitness through my strength and resistance routines. I raise my pulse rate to a level that gives me a cardio workout without detracting from my muscle strengthening activities. And I don’t sweat buckets. I don’t need to be soaked and ‘beasted’ to get a great workout. There are many other benefits of course.

Physiological benefits

These include better shape, tone and increased metabolic rate which means more effective fat burning. It decreases cholesterol levels, improves blood pressure and increases bone density. A stronger body core will reduce and potentially eliminate back pain. Your body co-ordination and function improves, meaning that it is easier to do the everyday physical tasks in life.

Psychological benefits.

These include improved concentration and focus, reduced anxiety and depression, and feeling good and overall improved well-being.

In conclusion

Cardio is great, but also catabolic. This means it encourages the body to break down muscle tissue. You don’t really want to lose muscle. You can have cardio fitness and muscle tone. It’s not a choice of one or the other.

I recommend you use weights and/or resistance bands at least twice a week. This type of training is anabolic. It encourages more and stronger muscle fibres.

Great if you know how to do this on your own. If not, for safety’s sake, speak to someone who does.