40+ Choice of Anti-Aging Workout: Group Class V.S. Weight Training

Exclusive Cardio Group Class Phase:

Back in my pre-Anti-Aging days (when we were younger), I was the master of finding any excuse to dodge my PE class. It wasn’t until my 30s, during my stint at an advertising agency, that I discovered the joy of working out. My BFF, A, got a personal trainer for herself and started swapping fitness tips and routines with me. I didn’t join a gym with her then because I found the gym might be too “serious” for me and, of course, trainers are too expensive. That’s when I stumbled upon the spinning class.

Group classes seemed less intimidating for me then. The music pumped me up, the coach was motivational, and the thrill of seeing my rank on the monitor while the coach yelled, “No. X bike, catch up!” pushed me to pedal harder and harder.

It was a fantastic beginning. After a couple of months in the spinning studio, I tiptoed into other group classes like the Les Mills series. I dabbled in dance, BodyCombat (think boxing), and BodyPump (a mix of cardio and weights).

Dedicated Weight Training Phase:

After a few rounds of Les Mills BodyPump, I realized my form for lifting weights, no matter how light, needed some serious attention. So, I enlisted the help of a personal trainer, committing to twice-a-week sessions at the beginning and, later, once a week, purchasing only 10 hours whenever I faced a bottleneck. Over the years, working in different cities led me to collaborate with five different personal trainers. My first one laid down the fundamental concepts of free weights, and my last one guided me in creating my own training menu.

During this phase, all my trainers advised me to cut down on cardio and suggested a 20-30 minute walk after weight training. Considering the money invested in personal training, I naturally cut back on group classes.

My Current Fitness Combo: Group Class + Solo Weight Training

I don’t have a personal trainer at the moment, and I still adore the vibrant atmosphere of group classes, whether it’s cardio or not. Barre, Pilates/Yoga, Spinning, BodyCombat—I squeeze in 2-3 sessions a week, each lasting about an hour.

On the flip side, weight lifting is my personal “ME” time for both mind and body. Wearing my Air Pods, an hour of workout with the MindPump Podcast recharges my energy. I’m also following their advice to have two full-body weight training days.

Occasionally, I attend social dance parties; salsa dancing turns out to be a fantastic cardio session. The music, turns, and spins give me a natural high without the need for alcohol (healthier, I guess). Sometimes, I head out for a hike just to embrace nature and soak up some sunlight.

Conclusion:

As I reflect on my fitness journey, I’ve come to realize that balance is key. The dynamic fusion of cardio and weight training has become my fitness mantra, with each contributing to a harmonious well-being. While I once leaned heavily towards one or the other, I’ve learned that my body thrives when I embrace both. Cardio ignites my energy and keeps my heart dancing, while weight training grants me the strength and sculpted resilience I crave.

I no longer adhere to a rigid routine. Some weeks, I find myself immersed in more cardio-intensive group classes, relishing the pulsating beats and camaraderie. Other times, my focus shifts to the rhythmic solitude of weight lifting, allowing my mind and muscles to synchronize.

It took me years to find the balance I enjoy now, and this equilibrium might shift as time goes by. Everyone has their perfect mix that suits their needs and lifestyle. Here I am sharing mine. How about yours?