Best Ratio of Weights vs. Cardio for Faster Weight Loss

[supergolfdude]

I've been walking (sometimes cycling) for the past few years. I keep reading that lifting weights (resistance training) should be added to a fitness program. Has anyone had great success with combining the two, and how much of each do you do? I thought I would do some serious lifting on nights I don't walk.

[Dominique]

I do both, and view them as complementary rather than mutually exclusive. As to having "great success", it depends on what one views as success. As someone turning 60 in a couple of years, I’m grateful I’m in good health, good shape (cardio fitness score: 58-62), maintain a normal weight (BMI fluctuation range: 19-21), have no chronic disease/do not need any medication. I lift weights five days a week (45-75 minutes sessions). My cardio is primarily walking (15-20k per day in average) and a tiny bit of running. I’ve become leaner over the years, though it’s still a work in progress.

[emili]

I do both as well. I could probably do more lifting than I do, but I mix it up with wearing a 10 pound vest and carrying 10 pounds in dumbbells to help with overall core strength. I would for sure add some form of strength training into your fitness regime. 

[alpainter]

Check out Craig Ballantyne's Book "The Cardio Myth." Great information about the best way to lose fat without doing traditional cardio. 

Tom Venuto, Rachel Cosgrove, Been Greenfield and Mark's Daily Apple are all great fat loss resources as well.

Sleep is also a huge component of fat loss as well. 

[WendyB]

I do both. I do a weight lifting exercise every other day. I have many DVD's and you tubes DVD's  I use to have a variety. I do cardio Daily as I love to walk. I need to walk to wake up in the morning