Maxiclimber Full-Body Workout: Weightlifting VS. Cardio

A MaxiClimber full-body workout combines the best of cardio and muscle toning to target the upper body, lower body, and core simultaneously. But, many of our users ask us, “Between cardio and weightlifting, what is the most important part of my workout?” When it comes to weightlifting vs. cardio, the answer is both! Combining fat-burning cardio with the muscle-building of weightlifting into one high-intensity interval training (HIIT) workout means more fat burned, more lean muscle built, and more results for your health journey.

Start with Cardio on Your MaxiClimber

The first step to a successful HIIT workout is to get on your vertical climber and tackle your cardio. The great news is that by using a MaxiClimber instead of a traditional home workout machine like a treadmill or stationary bike, you get more for your effort. Cardio on a MaxiClimber has consistently proven to burn more calories than traditional methods and increase afterburn. And, you eliminate the risk of injury from high impact forms of cardio like running or jumping.

Try Some of These Weightlifting Combos

Weightlifting combinations, or combo moves, do just that. They combine movements for maximum strengthening and building of lean muscle, which helps you burn more fat throughout your life. Here are a few top combo moves to use in your next HIIT workout:

Squat and Calf Raise

1. Start by standing with your feet hip-width apart. Point your toes slightly away from your core.
2. If you are using a barbell, place it across your traps. If you are using hand weights, hold them in a press level with your traps or hold them level with your shoulder and complete a press above your head along with the movement. You can even start this move without weights and add weight later.
3. Hinging from your hips, drop into a comfortable squat. The great thing about this movement is that you can go as low as you need to and adapt to what works best for you.
4. As you return to standing to complete your squat, raise your calves by moving up onto the balls of your feet.
5. Drop back down to your heels.
6. Repeat.

Biceps Curl and Shoulder Press

1. Stand straight while holding a set of hand weights in each hand even with your hips.
2. With palms facing up, curl the weights toward your body. You should feel the movement in your biceps.
3. As you complete the bicep curl, move seamlessly into a shoulder press by rotating your palms outward and pushing your hands straight into the air above your head.
4. Lower your arms back through the movement in reverse.
5. Repeat.

Reverse Lunge and Step-Up

1. Find a bench or other elevated surface in your workout area. You can even complete this move using a staircase.
2. Standing in front of the bench with a pair of dumbbells in each hand.
3. Place your hands at your hips with palms facing inward.
4. Reverse lunge by stepping back with your right leg.
5. Bring your right leg forward out of the lunge, and place it on top of the bench.
6. Move as if you were going to step up onto the bench with your left leg, but do not fully place your left foot onto the bench.
7. Bring your right leg down off the bench.
8. Step back into another reverse lunge using the right leg.
9. Return to a standing position.
10. Repeat for the opposite leg.

Get Started with MaxiClimber

If you’re ready to start your journey to better health and get a great workout from the comfort of your own home, it’s time to find the right MaxiClimber for you. Browse our models today!