Rooted growth guide: "Working out" vs. "Training"

In the context of fitness, "training" and "working out" are often used interchangeably, but they can have subtle differences in meaning.

"Working out" generally refers to engaging in physical exercise with the primary goal of staying active, burning calories, and maintaining overall health. It can involve various activities like jogging, cycling, or casual weightlifting. Working out may lack a specific structure or long-term plan.

"Training," on the other hand, implies a more systematic and goal-oriented approach. When you're training, you typically follow a structured program designed to achieve specific fitness objectives, such as building muscle, improving endurance, or enhancing athletic performance. Training involves a strategic progression of exercises, intensity, and duration.

Sustainability depends on individual preferences, goals, and lifestyle. Both working out and training can be sustainable, but the key is finding a routine that aligns with your interests and fits into your schedule. Consistency is crucial for long-term success, so choose activities you enjoy and can realistically commit to over time. Whether you prefer a more relaxed workout routine or a structured training program, the key is finding what works best for you and can be maintained over the long haul.

There are various types of workouts and training programs, each catering to different fitness goals and preferences. Here are some common types:

Cardiovascular Exercise:

• Working Out: Casual activities like jogging, cycling, swimming, or group fitness classes focused on improving cardiovascular health.

• Training: Structured programs like interval training, running programs, or cycling plans with specific goals, such as increasing endurance or speed.

Strength Training:

• Working Out: General weightlifting or resistance exercises without a strict plan.

• Training: Following a progressive strength training program with a focus on specific muscle groups, lifting techniques, and gradual intensity progression.

Flexibility and Mobility:

• Working Out: Engaging in activities like yoga or basic stretching routines.

• Training: Following a flexibility program or specific mobility exercises to enhance joint range of motion and overall flexibility.

Functional Fitness:

• Working Out: Incorporating everyday movements into workouts, like bodyweight exercises.

• Training: Specific functional training programs targeting movements related to daily activities or sports.

High-Intensity Interval Training (HIIT):

• Working Out: Participating in occasional high-intensity workouts.

• Training: Following a structured HIIT program with planned intervals and progressive intensity for improved cardiovascular fitness and fat loss.

Sports-Specific Training:

• Working Out: Engaging in sports for recreation or fitness.

• Training: Tailoring workouts to enhance skills, strength, and endurance specific to a particular sport.

Bodybuilding:

• Working Out: General weightlifting for muscle development.

• Training: Following a bodybuilding program with a focus on hypertrophy, specific muscle groups, and periodization.

CrossFit:

• Working Out: Participating in CrossFit-style workouts occasionally.

• Training: Regularly following CrossFit routines with a combination of high-intensity exercises for overall fitness.

Ultimately, the choice between working out and training depends on individual preferences, goals, and commitment levels. Both approaches can be effective when aligned with your specific fitness objectives. At Taproot, we aim to empower individuals to establish a solid foundation in their fitness journey, and we are here to help you build your personalized workout and/or training programs based on your goals. Not sure where to start? Come for a fitness assessment and find the type of training and workout programs that tap into your interest!