Cardio vs. weights

Happy Monday, friends.  I hope every enjoyed their super HOT weekend (at least it was here in KC!). 

As you know, I've been 'training' for a triathlon.  And by 'training' I mean swimming.  A lot.  Outside of that, my workout has been a little all over the map.  I know that to be the most successful with my training and to see results from my workouts, I'm going to need a more complete/detailed plan. And I know that swimming is NOT enough to balance out my love of beer and McDonald's breakfast. 

In addition to swimming and biking (I'm taking a break from running because of some hip flexor pain I'm hoping will go away on it's own) I NEED to incorporate weight lifting.  I work with a husband and wife team of trainers most of the time and LOVE them.  But with the need to swim and bike, I've decided I need to find shorter weight workouts that are higher intensity that I can do in 25-35 minutes pre cardio workout.

I've also been reading articles about the benefits of cardio versus the benefits of weights and the best workout for training as well as the best workouts for weight loss and long term health.  The message is mixed, but the majority of the research says that weights need to be a part of you workout in some capacity.  Cardio is great for you, particularly for long term heart health, but if your goals is weight loss, the fastest way to do it is to lift.  Obviously, a good combo is your best bet.    

So, starting today, I will be working weights back into the cardio workout.  And TOMORROW - I do my first lake swim w/ Jen.  I will keep you posted. 

Have a good one!!!

xoxo,
ryann