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Bicycle or elliptical – Which is better for your workout?

When it comes to getting a great workout, there are many options available at the gym. Two popular choices for cardio training are the bicycle and the elliptical machine. These pieces of equipment offer different benefits, and choosing the right one for your fitness goals can make all the difference.

The bicycle is a classic piece of workout equipment that has been around for centuries. It provides an effective cardiovascular workout, engaging the muscles of the legs and core. Cycling on a bicycle can help improve endurance, build strength, and burn calories. Whether you enjoy cycling outdoors or prefer the stationary bike at the gym, this exercise machine offers a versatile and challenging workout.

On the other hand, the elliptical machine is a relatively newer addition to the fitness world. This low-impact exercise equipment mimics the motion of walking or running, without putting stress on the joints. The elliptical provides a full-body workout, targeting the legs, arms, and core muscles. With adjustable resistance levels and incline settings, it allows for a customized and challenging workout.

So, which one is the better exercise machine for fitness? The answer depends on your personal preferences, fitness goals, and any physical limitations you may have. Both the bicycle and the elliptical are effective cardio options that can help you improve your fitness level. It’s important to choose the machine that you enjoy using and that allows you to get the most out of your workouts. Whether you prefer the traditional bike or the modern elliptical, regular cardio exercise is key to maintaining good health and achieving your fitness goals.

Benefits of regular exercise

Regular exercise is an essential component of a healthy lifestyle. Engaging in regular exercise can provide numerous benefits for both physical and mental well-being.

One of the main benefits of exercise is improved cardiovascular health. Cardiovascular exercise, also known as cardio, involves activities that increase the heart rate and improve circulation. Both the bicycle and elliptical are excellent pieces of equipment for cardiovascular training, as they provide an effective workout that gets the heart pumping.

In addition to improving cardiovascular health, regular exercise can also help with weight management. Both the bicycle and elliptical can be used for calorie-burning workouts, making them effective tools for weight loss or maintenance. Consistent exercise routines can increase metabolism and burn fat, leading to a healthier body composition.

Another benefit of regular exercise is the positive impact it has on mental health. Engaging in physical activity releases endorphins, which are known as “feel-good” hormones. These hormones help reduce stress, improve mood, and boost overall mental well-being. In addition, regular exercise has been shown to increase cognitive function and improve sleep quality.

Furthermore, exercise can improve overall fitness and endurance. Both the bicycle and elliptical are low-impact forms of exercise that can be adjusted to different levels of intensity. Regular workouts can lead to increased strength, flexibility, and stamina, allowing individuals to perform daily tasks with ease and participate in sports or recreational activities without exhaustion.

In conclusion, incorporating regular exercise into one’s routine can provide a wide range of benefits. Whether using a bicycle or an elliptical, engaging in cardiovascular training and physical activity can improve cardiovascular health, aid in weight management, boost mental well-being, and enhance overall fitness. So, find an exercise routine that suits your preferences and start reaping the rewards of a consistent workout regimen.

Comparison of bicycle and elliptical

When it comes to choosing the right workout equipment for your fitness needs, both the bicycle and elliptical machines are popular choices. Each machine offers unique benefits and features that can help you achieve your fitness goals.

A bicycle is a classic piece of gym equipment that provides an excellent cardiovascular workout. It works your legs, glutes, and core muscles, helping to improve your overall fitness levels. Cycling on a bicycle can be done indoors or outdoors, and it offers the advantage of being low-impact, making it suitable for people of all fitness levels.

On the other hand, an elliptical machine is a versatile piece of equipment that offers a full-body workout. It combines the movements of walking, running, and climbing stairs, engaging various muscle groups in your upper and lower body. This makes it an ideal choice for those looking to build strength and endurance while also improving their cardiovascular fitness.

Both the bicycle and elliptical machines offer adjustable resistance levels, allowing you to customize your workout according to your fitness level and goals. They also provide the option to track your progress, such as distance, speed, and calorie burn, making it easier to monitor your fitness journey.

When it comes to choosing between the bicycle and elliptical machine, it ultimately depends on your personal preferences and fitness goals. If you enjoy outdoor cycling or want a machine that primarily targets your lower body, a bicycle may be the better choice for you. However, if you prefer a full-body workout that can also help with strength training, an elliptical machine might be the ideal option.

In conclusion, both the bicycle and elliptical machines are effective tools for achieving fitness goals. Whether you choose to cycle or use an elliptical machine, incorporating regular cardio training into your fitness routine can help improve your overall health and well-being. Take the time to try out both machines and see which one suits your preferences and fitness needs best.

Cardiovascular workouts: Bicycle

When it comes to getting a great cardio workout, few exercises can beat cycling on a bicycle. Whether you prefer hitting the open road or pedaling away on a stationary bike at the gym, cycling is a fantastic way to improve your cardiovascular fitness.

Cycling on a bicycle offers a number of benefits for cardiovascular health. It increases your heart rate, which helps to strengthen your heart and improve blood circulation throughout your body. This can lead to a reduced risk of heart disease and other cardiovascular conditions.

In addition to improving heart health, cycling also helps to burn calories and lose weight. It is a low-impact exercise that puts less stress on your joints compared to running or other high-impact activities. Cycling on a regular basis can help you achieve your fitness goals and maintain a healthy weight.

Furthermore, cycling can be a convenient and enjoyable form of exercise. You can ride your bike outdoors and enjoy the fresh air and scenery, or you can use a stationary bike at the gym. Many gyms offer indoor cycling classes, which can be a fun and motivating way to get your cardio workout in.

When it comes to cardiovascular workouts, using a bicycle is a great choice. It provides an effective and enjoyable way to improve your fitness and overall health. So hop on a bike and start pedaling towards a healthier you!

Cardiovascular workouts: Elliptical

The elliptical machine is a popular piece of equipment found in most gyms that provides a low-impact cardiovascular workout. Using an elliptical machine, also known as a cross-trainer, is an effective way to improve fitness and endurance levels.

The elliptical machine provides a total body workout that engages various muscle groups, including the legs, arms, and core. This makes it an ideal choice for those looking to tone and strengthen their entire body. The cardio aspect of using an elliptical machine helps to increase heart rate and improve cardiovascular health.

One of the main benefits of using an elliptical machine for cardio exercise is its low-impact nature. This means that the elliptical machine puts less stress on the joints compared to activities such as running or jumping. This makes it a suitable option for individuals with joint issues or those recovering from injuries.

In addition to its low-impact nature, the elliptical machine offers a variety of workout options. Most machines have adjustable resistance levels and incline settings, allowing users to challenge themselves and vary their workout intensity. This makes it a versatile piece of equipment for both beginners and advanced users.

Using an elliptical machine for cardiovascular training can also be a time-efficient option. It allows users to simultaneously work multiple muscle groups while getting their heart rate up. This can be particularly beneficial for those looking to maximize their workout time.

In conclusion, the elliptical machine is an excellent choice for cardiovascular workouts. Its low-impact nature, total body engagement, and customizable workout options make it a versatile and effective piece of equipment for fitness training.

Low-impact workouts: Bicycle

When it comes to low-impact workouts, a bicycle is one of the best fitness equipment options available. Whether you prefer a stationary bike or a road bike, cycling provides a fantastic cardio exercise that is easy on the joints.

When compared to other forms of cardio exercise like running or high-impact aerobics, cycling on a bicycle significantly reduces the risk of injury, especially for individuals with joint issues or those recovering from injuries. The smooth, circular motion of pedaling allows for a low-impact workout that does not put excessive stress on the knees, hips, or ankles.

Using a bicycle as part of your gym or home workout routine can help you achieve your fitness goals without putting strain on your joints. It is an excellent choice for individuals who want to increase their cardiovascular endurance while minimizing the risk of injury.

Cycling on a bicycle is not only a low-impact workout option but also an effective way to engage your muscles. The continuous motion of pedaling targets the lower body muscles, including the quadriceps, hamstrings, calves, and glutes. Additionally, it also engages the core muscles, providing a complete and effective workout.

Whether you prefer to take your bicycle outdoors or use a stationary bike at the gym, incorporating cycling into your fitness routine can help improve endurance, build strength, and burn calories. It is a versatile form of low-impact cardio exercise that allows for individual control over the intensity and resistance level of the workout.

Overall, when it comes to low-impact workouts, a bicycle is an excellent choice for individuals looking to improve their fitness levels and engage in cardio exercise without putting excessive stress on their joints. Incorporating cycling into your training routine can help you achieve your fitness goals while minimizing the risk of injury.

Low-impact workouts: Elliptical

When it comes to fitness, finding low-impact workouts can be a game-changer. While many love the cardio benefits of running or cycling, they may not be suitable for everyone, especially those who have joint or muscle issues. That’s where the elliptical machine comes in.

The elliptical machine is a piece of cardio equipment commonly found in gyms and fitness centers. It provides a low-impact workout that is gentle on your joints, making it a great choice for those looking to improve their fitness without putting too much strain on their body. With its smooth gliding motion, the elliptical machine mimics the natural movement of walking or running, but without the impact.

Benefits of using the elliptical machine

1. Cardiovascular training: The elliptical machine offers an effective cardiovascular workout, helping to improve your heart health and stamina. By increasing your heart rate, you can burn calories and improve your overall fitness level.

2. Full-body workout: Unlike some other cardio machines, the elliptical machine engages both the upper and lower body. The moving handlebars allow you to target your arms, shoulders, and core while the pedals work your legs and glutes. This full-body approach makes it a great choice for those looking for a comprehensive workout.

Using the elliptical machine effectively

When using the elliptical machine, it’s important to maintain proper form and technique. Keep your back straight, engage your core, and push through your heels with each stride. Varying the resistance and incline settings can also help you challenge different muscle groups and make your workout more effective.

In conclusion, the elliptical machine is an excellent choice for low-impact workouts. Whether you’re recovering from an injury, have joint issues, or just prefer a gentler workout, the elliptical machine can help you achieve your fitness goals. Incorporate it into your exercise routine and enjoy a challenging yet low-impact workout.

Calorie Burning: Bicycle

When it comes to calorie burning, the bicycle workout equipment is an excellent choice. It provides a high-intensity cardio workout that can help you burn calories efficiently. Whether you prefer to ride a stationary bike at home or hit the gym for a cycling class, the bicycle is a versatile piece of equipment that caters to all fitness levels.

Cardio and Fitness Benefits

Cycling on a stationary or outdoor bike engages large muscle groups, such as the quadriceps, hamstrings, and glutes. This type of workout helps improve your cardiovascular health, strengthen your lower body, and boost your overall fitness levels. Whether you are a beginner or an experienced athlete, cycling provides a low-impact activity that can contribute to weight loss goals and improve your endurance.

Training Intensity

When it comes to training intensity, cycling on a bicycle offers various resistance levels that can be adjusted to match your fitness level and goals. You can choose to pedal at a leisurely pace for a longer duration, or you can increase the resistance for a more challenging workout. This versatility allows you to adapt your training to your individual needs and gradually increase the intensity as you progress.

Bicycle Elliptical
Calorie Burning High Medium
Training Intensity Adjustable Adjustable
Impact on Joints Low Low

In summary, the bicycle is a fantastic choice for calorie burning, providing a high-intensity cardio workout that can help you achieve your fitness goals. With adjustable training intensity and low impact on joints, it is a versatile and effective piece of equipment to incorporate into your workout routine.

Calorie burning: Elliptical

When it comes to burning calories, the elliptical machine is a fantastic choice for your fitness routine. Whether you are training for a specific event or just looking to improve your overall fitness level, incorporating the elliptical into your exercise regimen can provide you with a highly effective workout.

One of the main benefits of the elliptical is its ability to provide a low-impact workout that is easy on your joints. This makes it an ideal choice for individuals who may have joint issues or injuries, as well as those who are new to exercise. The smooth and fluid motion of the elliptical helps to prevent unnecessary strain on your knees, hips, and ankles, allowing you to burn calories without the risk of injury.

Additionally, the elliptical machine offers a highly efficient cardiovascular workout. By engaging multiple muscle groups in both your upper and lower body, the elliptical enables you to burn a significant amount of calories during your workout. The continuous motion of the machine promotes a higher heart rate, increasing your cardiovascular endurance and helping you to improve your overall fitness level.

Using the elliptical machine can help you to burn calories at a faster rate compared to other gym equipment, such as a bicycle. This is due to the fact that the elliptical engages more muscle groups, providing a more intense and effective workout. If you are looking to maximize your calorie burn in a shorter amount of time, the elliptical is an excellent choice.

Calorie Burning Comparison: Elliptical vs Bicycle

Let’s compare the calorie burning potential of the elliptical and the bicycle. According to studies, a person weighing 155 pounds can expect to burn approximately 335 calories during a 30-minute session on the elliptical at a moderate intensity. In comparison, the same person would burn around 260 calories during a 30-minute bicycle ride at a moderate pace.

This significant difference in calorie burn can be attributed to the elliptical’s ability to engage more muscle groups, as well as the higher intensity of the workout. However, it is important to note that individual results may vary depending on factors such as weight, fitness level, and intensity of the workout.

Machine Calories Burned (30 minutes)
Elliptical (moderate intensity) 335
Bicycle (moderate pace) 260

In conclusion, if your primary goal is to burn calories and improve your overall fitness level, the elliptical machine is a superior choice compared to the bicycle. Its low-impact nature, ability to engage multiple muscle groups, and higher calorie burn make it an excellent option for a cardio workout.

Muscle engagement: Bicycle

When it comes to exercise equipment, the bicycle is a popular choice at the gym for cardiovascular workouts. Not only does it provide an effective cardio workout, but it also engages multiple muscle groups, making it a great option for overall fitness.

Lower body engagement

One of the key areas that the bicycle targets is the lower body. Riding a bicycle requires the use of the quadriceps, hamstrings, and calves to pedal and propel the body forward. The continuous movement of the legs helps to strengthen and tone these muscles, making them more resilient and powerful over time. Additionally, cycling uphill or against resistance adds an extra challenge, providing an even greater workout for the lower body.

Core engagement

In addition to the lower body, cycling also engages the core muscles. These muscles include the abdominals, obliques, and lower back. As you cycle, your core works to stabilize and support your body, especially during more intense and fast-paced workouts. By strengthening your core, you can improve your stability, balance, and posture, which are essential for overall fitness and injury prevention.

In conclusion, using a bicycle at the gym is a fantastic way to engage and strengthen multiple muscle groups. With its emphasis on the lower body and core engagement, it provides an effective and efficient workout for those looking to improve their fitness levels.

Muscle engagement: Elliptical

When it comes to fitness, the elliptical is a great workout machine that engages multiple muscle groups. It is a popular choice among gym-goers as it provides a low-impact cardio exercise that is gentle on the joints while still offering an intense training session.

Using an elliptical promotes a full-body workout by engaging muscles in the upper and lower body simultaneously. The pushing and pulling motion of the handles engages the muscles in the arms, shoulders, and back, while the pedaling motion works the muscles in the legs, including the quadriceps, hamstrings, and calves.

In addition to the upper and lower body muscles, the elliptical also targets the core muscles. Keeping the body upright and balanced during the workout engages the abdominal and back muscles, providing stability and strengthening the core.

One of the advantages of using an elliptical is that it allows users to adjust the resistance levels, which can further amp up the intensity of the workout and engage the muscles even more. By increasing the resistance, users can target specific muscle groups and challenge themselves during their cardio sessions.

The elliptical is a versatile piece of equipment that provides an effective cardiovascular workout while engaging multiple muscle groups. Whether you’re looking to improve your overall fitness, burn calories, or tone specific muscles, the elliptical can be a valuable addition to your exercise routine.

Muscle Groups Engaged:
Arms (biceps, triceps)
Shoulders (deltoids)
Back (latissimus dorsi)
Legs (quadriceps, hamstrings, calves)
Core (abdominals, lower back)

Overall, the elliptical provides a comprehensive workout that targets multiple muscle groups, making it an excellent choice for individuals looking to improve their fitness levels and engage their muscles efficiently.

Joint health: Bicycle

When it comes to joint health, using a bicycle for training can be a great choice. Cycling is a low-impact exercise that puts less stress on your joints compared to other equipment like the elliptical. This makes it an excellent option for individuals with joint issues or those recovering from injuries.

The smooth, circular motion of the bicycle pedals allows for a natural range of motion that is gentle on your joints. Unlike the elliptical, which can put strain on your knees and ankles, the bicycle provides a more fluid movement that reduces the risk of joint pain or injury.

Benefits of cycling for joint health:

1. Low impact: The bicycle’s design and mechanics make it an ideal cardio workout equipment that minimizes the impact on your joints.

2. Improved joint mobility: Cycling helps to improve joint mobility and flexibility, especially in the hips, knees, and ankles.

3. Strengthening muscles around joints: The repetitive motion of pedaling on a bicycle helps to strengthen the muscles around your joints, providing additional support and stability.

Whether you prefer cycling outdoors or in the comfort of a gym, incorporating regular bike workouts into your exercise routine can be beneficial for your joint health. Just remember to adjust the seat and handlebar height properly to ensure proper alignment and minimize any potential strain on your joints.

Joint Health: Bicycle

Joint Health: Elliptical

Low impact exercise Higher impact exercise
Joint-friendly motion Potential strain on knees and ankles
Improved joint mobility and flexibility Less emphasis on joint mobility
Strengthens muscles around joints Less focus on muscle strengthening

Joint health: Elliptical

When it comes to fitness and cardio training, the choice between a bicycle and an elliptical machine can make a big difference in terms of joint health. While both pieces of equipment provide a great cardiovascular workout, the elliptical machine has some distinct advantages when it comes to taking care of your joints.

The elliptical machine is designed to provide a low-impact workout that minimizes stress on your joints, making it a great option for those with joint issues or injuries. The smooth and fluid motion of the elliptical machine allows for a more natural range of motion, reducing the risk of strain or impact-related injuries.

In contrast, riding a bicycle can put more stress on your joints, particularly your knees and hips. The repetitive motion of pedaling can lead to overuse injuries or exacerbate existing joint problems. Additionally, the upright position on a bicycle can cause strain on your back and neck.

By using an elliptical machine, you are able to get a similar cardiovascular workout to cycling without the added stress on your joints. This makes it a great choice for individuals looking to maintain their fitness while protecting their joints from excessive wear and tear.

Furthermore, the elliptical machine offers the ability to vary your workout intensity and target different muscle groups, adding to its versatility as a training tool. This can help prevent muscle imbalances and further reduce the risk of joint-related injuries.

Overall, if joint health is a concern for you, the elliptical machine is the better option when compared to a bicycle. It provides a low-impact workout that is gentler on your joints while still offering an effective and challenging exercise experience. So next time you hit the gym, consider hopping on the elliptical for a joint-friendly cardio session!

Convenience: Bicycle

When it comes to convenience, the bicycle is a winner. Unlike an elliptical machine, which requires you to go to the gym or have one at home, a bicycle allows you to train and workout anywhere. Whether it’s a sunny day outside or you want to get some cardio exercise while watching your favorite TV show, a bicycle provides the flexibility that other exercise equipment may not.

Additionally, bicycles are relatively easy to store and transport. You can easily move them around your home or even take them with you on a road trip. This makes them a convenient choice for those who may have limited space or travel frequently.

Benefits of Training with a Bicycle

When it comes to fitness, cycling on a bicycle offers many benefits. It is a great way to improve your cardiovascular health and strengthen your lower body muscles. Whether you’re just starting your fitness journey or are already an experienced athlete, cycling can be tailored to your fitness level and goals.

The convenience of a bicycle allows you to incorporate exercise into your daily routine easily. You can use it for commuting to work, running errands, or simply going for a leisurely ride. This versatility makes it a practical choice for those who want to stay active without having to dedicate a lot of time to a workout.

Choosing the Right Bicycle

When selecting a bicycle for your fitness needs, consider factors such as the type of riding you plan to do, your body type, and your budget. Road bikes are great for those who want to go fast on smooth surfaces, while mountain bikes provide stability and durability for off-road adventures.

Make sure to also invest in proper safety equipment, such as a helmet and reflective clothing, to ensure a safe and enjoyable riding experience. Additionally, consider accessories such as a water bottle holder and a bike lock to enhance convenience and security.

In conclusion, the convenience of a bicycle sets it apart from an elliptical machine. Its portability and versatility make it an excellent choice for those seeking a convenient way to incorporate exercise into their daily lives. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced athlete, a bicycle can be a valuable piece of fitness equipment.

Convenience: Elliptical

When it comes to convenience, the elliptical machine is the clear winner. Unlike a bicycle, which requires users to go outside or to a gym or fitness center, an elliptical machine can be used in the comfort of your own home. This means that you can easily fit in a workout whenever it is convenient for you, without having to worry about the weather or commuting to a gym.

In addition, the elliptical machine provides a low-impact cardio workout, making it suitable for individuals of all fitness levels, including those recovering from injuries or with joint pain. This makes it a versatile piece of exercise equipment that can be used by anyone looking to improve their cardiovascular health.

Benefits of using an elliptical machine for convenience:

  1. Flexibility: With an elliptical machine at home, you have the flexibility to fit in a workout whenever it suits you, whether it’s in the morning, during your lunch break, or in the evening.
  2. No commuting time: By having an elliptical at home, you eliminate the need to spend time commuting to and from a gym or fitness center. This can save you valuable time that can be used for other activities.
  3. No weather constraints: Unlike biking, where you are dependent on good weather conditions, using an elliptical machine allows you to exercise regardless of the weather outside. This is especially advantageous during the colder months or when it is raining.

In conclusion, the elliptical machine offers convenience in terms of flexibility, time-saving, and lack of weather constraints. These factors make it a suitable choice for individuals looking to incorporate regular cardiovascular training into their fitness routine without the hassle of going to a gym or dealing with outdoor conditions.

Summary

In the world of fitness and exercise, choosing the right equipment for your workout is crucial. When it comes to cardio training, two popular options are the bicycle and the elliptical machine. Both of these machines provide an excellent workout and have their own unique benefits.

The bicycle is a classic piece of equipment that has been used for exercise for many years. It offers a great cardiovascular workout and helps to strengthen the legs and core muscles. Riding a bicycle is a low-impact exercise, making it ideal for people with joint issues or injuries. Additionally, bicycles can be used both indoors and outdoors, allowing for flexibility in training locations.

On the other hand, the elliptical machine is a newer addition to the fitness world. It mimics the motion of running or walking, but without the impact on the joints. The elliptical targets the entire body, engaging the legs, arms, and core, making it a full-body workout. It also offers the option to adjust the resistance level, allowing for different levels of intensity. Some elliptical machines also offer features like heart rate monitoring and preset workout programs.

Ultimately, the choice between a bicycle and an elliptical machine depends on personal preference and fitness goals. Those looking for a traditional outdoor experience or who prefer the feeling of riding a bike may opt for a bicycle. For individuals looking for a full-body, low-impact workout with the ability to adjust intensity levels, an elliptical machine may be the better choice. Regardless of the choice, both pieces of equipment offer excellent options for improving fitness and achieving cardio goals.

Bicycle Elliptical Machine
✓ Provides a great cardiovascular workout ✓ Mimics running or walking without joint impact
✓ Strengthens the legs and core muscles ✓ Engages the entire body
✓ Low-impact exercise ✓ Adjustable resistance levels
✓ Can be used indoors and outdoors ✓ Additional features like heart rate monitoring

Questions and answers:

Which exercise machine is better for weight loss: bicycle or elliptical?

Both the bicycle and elliptical can help with weight loss, as they are both aerobic exercises that burn calories. However, the elliptical typically burns more calories per hour than the bicycle. So, if weight loss is your primary goal, the elliptical may be the better choice.

Does using the elliptical provide a better cardiovascular workout than cycling?

The elliptical machine and cycling both provide excellent cardiovascular workouts. However, the elliptical offers a lower impact workout, as it puts less stress on the joints compared to cycling. So, if you have joint issues or are looking for a low-impact workout, the elliptical may be a better choice for you.

Which exercise machine is better for working the lower body muscles: bicycle or elliptical?

Both the bicycle and elliptical engage the muscles in the lower body, but they differ in terms of which muscles are targeted more. The bicycle primarily works the quadriceps, hamstrings, and calves, while the elliptical works the glutes, quadriceps, hamstrings, and calves. So, if you want to focus more on your glutes, the elliptical may be the better choice.

Can using a bicycle or elliptical machine help improve balance and coordination?

While both the bicycle and elliptical provide a great workout, they do not specifically target balance and coordination. To improve these skills, it is recommended to incorporate exercises that focus on balance and coordination, such as yoga or Pilates, into your fitness routine.

Is it possible to build upper body strength using a bicycle or elliptical?

The bicycle and elliptical primarily work the muscles in the lower body, so they are not the best machines for building upper body strength. If you want to strengthen your upper body, it is recommended to incorporate exercises that target the chest, back, arms, and shoulders, such as weightlifting or push-ups, into your fitness routine.