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What are Anti-inflammatory Foods
As with many things, the answer is: it depends. People have different health goals, abilities, and limitations, so there is no one-size-fits-all answer.
Broadly speaking, there are three types of exercise: Strength training, cardio, and restorative workouts. All three have their benefits and all three have so many different workouts that fit the bills. Depending on our personalities and our stage of life, we can often benefit more from one than another too. Once we find what it is that works for us, exercise can be something we all look forward to!
1. Strength Training
Strength training is anything that makes our muscles stronger.
This kind of exercise helps:
- Metabolic health
- Maintaining muscle mass
- Supporting bone density
Types of Strength training include:
- Squats
- Bodyweight exercises like pull-ups & lungers
- Push & Pull, e.g. barbell or dumbbell
- CrossFit
- Power yoga class
2. Cardio Training
Cardio training is anything that raises our heart rate.
This kind of exercise helps:
- Manage blood pressure
- Manage mood
- Improve energy levels
It is great for people who:
- Are at risk of heart disease
- Want to improve their joint health
- Want to improve their mental health
- Men and women up to the age of 40 looking to manage weight
Types of Cardio training include:
- Running
- Swimming
- Walking
- Hiking
- Biking
3. Restorative Exercises
Restorative exercises are low in impact and intensity and are perfect for those who are feeling wiped out, stressed, burnt out and well, in need of restoration.
This kind of exercise helps:
- Flexibility
- Muscle and bone pain
- Joint support
- Detoxification
- Weight loss for those with high cortisol and stressed nerves system
It is great for people who:
- Are burnt out and overstressed
- Are looking to improve mental health
- Are looking to improve flexibility
- Have mobility restrictions
Types of Restorative training include:
- Breathwork
- Yoga
- Pilates
- Foam rolling
How do we know what’s right for us?
If it’s immediately clear from the above tables then great! If not, it might be time for a body check in. Ask yourself: “How are my stress levels?” If they’re high, restorative is a good choice. If they’re low, we’re well slept, and feeling energised then our bodies will benefit from strength or cardio exercises.
If weight management is the goal, women over 40 are likely to respond better to strength training (even some resistance is good, we don’t need to be Olympians!) and some strength-based yoga. For men and younger women, cardio training and strength training are beneficial.
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