Are You Training or Working Out?

When you go to the gym, do you go with a plan or do you just wing it depending on what muscle group you want to work for that day? The path you take can determine if you are training or just simply working out without a general purpose when you are visiting the gym. In this article, I hope to explain the difference between training and working out and help you find the choice that is right for you.

What is Training?

If you are trying to achieve a fitness goal or reach your optimal physique and weight, there is a good chance that you are already focusing on training and not just working out. Training allows you to follow specific programs designed to meet your individual goals and provides a blueprint to help you stay on track. If you are going to the gym with a plan, you are most likely already training.

What is Working Out?

Sometimes you just want to go into the gym and let off a little steam. While this can be very beneficial every once in a while, you likely aren’t building real muscle if you are consistently winging it in the gym. Working out is exactly this, just working whatever you want to with no specific plan to increase endorphins or make you feel better. However, without a specific plan to follow you will probably lose interest in going to the gym or burn out quickly.

Which Should You Do?

For the majority of people, training will provide more benefits than just simply working out. For instance, training with a specific goal gives you a consistent reason to continue to go to the gym and adds purpose to your visits. Use your specific goals to tailor your weight training program to your needs and remain consistent to achieve them.