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Strength vs. Endurance

When it comes to exercise and fitness, there are basically two types of training or exercise – strength and endurance. Most athletes combine both for maximum performance.

So…what’s the difference between strength and endurance?

Strength involves the ability to do something that takes a lot of energy or “muscle” over a relatively short period of time, such as picking up and moving a heavy box.

Endurance involves the ability to do something that takes only a moderate amount of energy, or doing something repetitive, over a longer period of time, such as running a marathon.

Strength training, which involves the use of weights, has a number of benefits:

• Builds lean muscle, which increases metabolism to help you lose weight

• Strengthens muscles to assist with everyday activities, such as lifting bags and carrying children, and strengthens bones, which in turn lowers your risk for osteoporosis

• Strengthens ligaments and tendons to help you avoid injury

• Helps to reduce joint pain, such as arthritis pain

• Assists in physical therapy for injuries resulting from accidents, as well as after hospital stays

• Adds variety to your exercise routine

• Reduces stress, builds positive body image, increases confidence

Endurance training generally involves some type of aerobic exercise, such as running, cycling, circuit training or swimming to build stamina. The benefits of endurance training are primarily cardiovascular – it increases oxygen-rich blood flow throughout your body, reduces plaque in the arteries (cholesterol) and reduces the risk for stroke, heart disease and high blood pressure. It also helps you to lose weight and it releases brain chemicals (endorphins) that improve mood and reduce depression/anxiety symptoms.

Most people combine both types of training for maximum benefit. When addressing neck and back injuries, endurance training is most beneficial for reducing pain and increasing function. Along with regular chiropractic care, we can suggest appropriate exercises for you if you are suffering from back and neck pain.