Weights vs cardio?

[lay]

I haven't done cardio for 3 weeks now because of a minor foot injury. I should be ok to exercise soon though. I have lifted *some* weights to keep up my strength though.

My question is:
I haven't changed my eating plan at all- I know I should've cut back on junk and calories, but I didn't. I really haven't noticed a huge difference in my body though, except that I'm a bit more "soft" (mushier belly, thighs, and bottom) and maybe my clothes fit a tad tighter (maybe water weight too?).

Knowing this, should I start to really focus more on weights since my body didn't change that much from no cardio? I wouldn't stop cardio since I don't like the mush, maybe just do 3xs a week and not care so much about fitting it in. I used to do 4xs cardio and 1-2xs weights (I would do cardio over weights if there was little time).

Thanks for ANY advice on this!

 

[Cathe Friedrich]

Hi Lay! It is hard to tell. Some people stay really fit and tight with more weights and minimal cardio (3 short sessions per week)and some people need an equal combo of both, while yet some need more cardio and less weights. You may be in the first category or you may also find that the last three weeks have not caught up yet and suddenly you will notice a difference in your body in the next week.

I would say to do what you enjoy doing the most (but definitely try to clean up the diet since that REALLY makes a difference) and if you get the results you are looking for great. If not change the formula around a bit and see if that improves things. Good Luck!

 

[clareMc]

Lay:

I think the answer might lie with the reason why you work out.
The mush could easily be the result of just one weights session per week, as much as a break from cardio. Why don't you keep the two weights session as a regular fixture of your week, so you have some consistency, and then see how you feel about cardio. You seem to be a cardio rather than weights person and I know how you feel! If cardio is your main love, keep the two weights --three if you want to push to the next level-- and mix up for as many days as you want all your fave cardio routines. I think Cathe is right: you have to mix and match and find your own body's harmony. What makes yours feel like its just humming along nicely? And you should feel free to not sweat it either: so you feel like doing three cardio sesions one week, four the next, whatever. If it becomes a rigid routine, it can get dull.

And, as the weather gets better, take it outside! Cycle to the library, power walk to the shops, turn hand springs to the bank and then you start to fit more cardio in than you realized you were doing and you can relax on the routine and enjoy!

Mushy butt bye-bye!! Have fun Lay!

Clare