To be honest, each type of training serves a different purpose. Depending on your goals, one may be more or less appropriate. Honestly, low intensity steady state exercise (aka LISS) can be super helpful for heart health. It also can help you build capacity and improve your recovery between lifts!
What is LISS?
LISS cardio includes things like walking, a leisurely bike ride or jog, etc. It’s basically easier to maintain over time, but performed for a longer duration of time. It’s great for improving an aerobic base (which helps your lifts too) and improves your cardiovascular health.
Jordan Syatt (@syattfittness) has two amazing podcasts on zone 2 cardio (here is part 1 and here is part 2). These podcasts discuss the benefits and how to determine if you’re in zone 2 without any fancy equipment. I’d highly recommend giving those a listen to learn more!
Why don’t we hear about LISS?
Overall, low intensity steady state exercise is overlooked in the fitness world (although zone 2 cardio is gaining popularity). Typically, we talk about lifting and higher intensity exercise, and we overlook some of the benefits of lower intensity exercise.
Low intensity exercise is easy to recover from, so it won’t impact your other training goals. Whereas higher intensity exercise typically involves more impact on joints and requires more demand on your body (such as your musculoskeletal system and cardiovascular systems).
High intensity training is over-hyped, as it burns more calories. Unfortunately, the fitness industry focuses on rapid weight loss vs. improving ones overall health. So, it markets things that seem to result in weight loss.
Don’t forget, you can seem really healthy from an outward appearance. But, if you’re neglecting one part of your health (such as heart health), there can be some serious consequences!
Hope you found this helpful! Remember, no one is perfect and that in itself is perfect!
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Remember: this post is for informational purposes only and may not be the best fit for you and your personal situation. It shall not be construed as medical advice. The information and education provided here is not intended or implied to supplement or replace professional medical treatment, advice, and/or diagnosis. Always check with your own physician or medical professional before trying or implementing any information read here.Â
