When it comes to living a long and healthy life, exercise is key. But which type of exercise is better for longevity: running or weights? Let’s take a closer look.

The Benefits of Running

Running is a high-intensity cardiovascular exercise that has numerous health benefits. Some of these benefits include:.

Improved heart health
Lowered risk of chronic diseases such as diabetes and heart disease
Stronger bones
Better lung capacity and respiratory health
Improved mental health and reduced risk of depression

Running has also been shown to reduce inflammation in the body, which is a key factor in many chronic diseases. It’s also a great way to burn calories and maintain a healthy weight.

The Benefits of Weight Training

Weight training, on the other hand, is a form of strength training that uses resistance to build muscle and strength. Some of the benefits of weight training include:.

Increased muscle mass and strength
Better bone density and reduced risk of osteoporosis
Improved joint health
Faster metabolism and increased calorie burn
Better overall physical function and mobility

Weight training has also been shown to improve insulin sensitivity, which can reduce the risk of type 2 diabetes. And like running, weight training can also be great for mental health and well-being.

The Case for Running

While both running and weight training have numerous benefits, when it comes to longevity, running may have the edge.

For one, running has been shown to reduce the risk of premature death. In a study published in the Journal of the American College of Cardiology, researchers found that running reduced the risk of death from all causes by 27%.

Running has also been shown to be particularly effective in reducing the risk of cardiovascular disease, which is the leading cause of death in the United States.

In a study published in the British Journal of Sports Medicine, researchers found that regular runners had a 30% lower risk of death from cardiovascular disease compared to non-runners.

And while weight training is great for building muscle and strength, it may not provide the same cardiovascular benefits that running does.

In fact, a study published in the Journal of Strength and Conditioning Research found that weight training alone had no effect on cardiovascular fitness.

The Case for Weight Training

While running may have the edge when it comes to cardiovascular health, weight training can be just as important for longevity.

For one, weight training can help maintain bone density and reduce the risk of osteoporosis, which is particularly important as we age. As we get older, our bones become more fragile and are more susceptible to fractures.

Weight training can help maintain bone density and reduce the risk of falls and fractures.

Weight training can also help maintain muscle mass and strength, which is important for overall physical function and mobility. As we age, we naturally lose muscle mass and strength, which can lead to decreased mobility and independence.

And while running is great for burning calories and maintaining a healthy weight, weight training can also be effective in this regard.

In fact, a study published in the Journal of Strength and Conditioning Research found that weight training was just as effective as cardio for weight loss.

So Which Should You Choose?

When it comes to choosing between running and weight training, the answer may depend on your individual health goals and preferences.

If you’re looking to improve your cardiovascular health and reduce your risk of chronic diseases, running may be the way to go. If you’re looking to maintain or build muscle mass and strength, weight training may be more beneficial.

But the truth is, you don’t have to choose between running and weight training. In fact, both forms of exercise can complement each other and provide a well-rounded fitness routine.

So whether you prefer to hit the pavement or lift weights, make sure to incorporate both types of exercise into your routine for maximum health benefits.