Often the words ‘training’ and ‘working out’ are used interchangeably, I know this might seem bizarre, but they’re two very different things. Workouts are a more light-hearted and fun variation of exercise whereas training is often more intense.

But that doesn’t mean that training is only reserved for athletes. Anyone can train if they set a goal and work towards it.

Training vs Working Out

Most people that go to the gym tend to go for a workout. There is usually less intention behind a workout as it isn’t goal orientated. It’s less about working towards a specific outcome and more about getting a sweat on. Some key indicators that you’re going to the gym to do a workout include -

• Going to the gym without a training plan.

• Random and unstructured workouts.

• No specific health/fitness goals.

• Going to the gym more for social purposes.

• Attending group classes.

Training on the other hand is about exercising with purpose in mind. When people train, they are striving towards a goal. This can be a general goal such as getting stronger or losing weight, or it might be more specific such as competing in a Strongman competition. Signs that you are training include -

• Going to the gym with a plan.

• Using the principles of progressive overload.

• Having a training goal.

• Working with a Coach/Personal Trainer.

• Monitoring your progress.

Should I Work Out or Train?

This all depends on what your health and fitness goals are. If you are going to the gym/exercising with no specific purpose and just want to maintain a healthy lifestyle, then working out might be the best option for you. This is often the case for people that want to get a sweat on in the gym but aren’t working towards any specific goals.

But, if you’re trying to reach a certain result, then you need to be training. Whether you’re training to get stronger, break a PB in a lift or run your first 10km, all of these desired outcomes need planning and structure. You can’t expect to get results with random workouts. Progressive overload is essential when training, this means gradually increasing the stress you’re placing on the body. A good example is progressing one week from 10kg Hex Dumbbell goblet squats to 15kg dumbbells. When you’re trying to reach a goal, not only does your training need to be planned, but other factors are just as important, such as sleep, recovery and nutrition.

If you’re serious about exercise, then you should be training. In fact, anyone that has a goal should be training. If you want to get from A to B, then you need a plan and you can only execute this plan if you’re training.

Alternatively, if you’re simply exercising to get a sweat on and have fun then there’s nothing wrong with a workout.

The bottom line: No one style of exercise is better than another. The most important thing is that you stay active and move your body.

Written by guest author Eryn Barber.

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Tags: Misc > Lifestyle