Which Is Best: Yoga, Pilates, or Cardio?

If you are new to the gym, you might be weighing your options for pre-lifting or post-lifting exercises. Of the many options available, you might be considering exercises like Pilates or yoga. But how do they stand up to cardio?

If you are still trying to decide which option is the best workout for you, here's what you need to know.

Should You Try Cardio?

Cardio is a great option if you are trying to lose weight. You can incorporate cardio into a lifting routine to burn fat and put your body in a place where you can burn fat through your lifting routine. Cardio helps you burn calories so that you can fight fat gain as well.

Cardio also comes in many forms, which means you can do cardio even if you are not able to run or walk long distances. You can try cardio barre, kickboxing, stairs, or anything else that gets your body going. Gyms are equipped to provide different cardio workouts.

Should You Try Pilates?

Pilates is a great option if you want to slow down and work on controlled movements. You will not burn a lot of calories the way you would with cardio, but you can still lose weight and strengthen your core at the same time. Many gyms are equipped with the tools you need for a Pilates session.

Pilates is all about stabilizing your muscles, building flexibility, and establishing strength. You learn how to move with care and how to breathe with your movements. You can get a full-body workout from a single Pilates session, but you may not sweat the way you would with cardio.

Should You Try Yoga?

Yoga is a good idea if you want to build strength and contribute to weight loss. Yoga is a great way to end a lifting or cardio session, helping you stretch your muscles while continuing to build strength. Gyms often offer yoga mats, blocks, and other tools for yoga.

The good thing about yoga is that it goes deeper than general stretching. You hold the poses, which gives you the ability to deepen each one. It helps ease stress and anxiety as well, giving you the mental health boost you may need to begin the day in a good mood.

Develop a Solid Fitness Routine at the Gym

No matter when or how you hit the gym, it is a good idea to develop a fitness routine that works for you. The gym can help you establish a foundation for a good routine. Set up a gym membership today to begin your fitness journey.