Weight Training vs Resistance Training

                                 

Weight training is a common type of strength training done to increase the size and strength of your muscles.  Strength training uses the force of gravity to oppose the force generated by your muscles through concentric and eccentric contractions.  Weight training uses a variety of equipment such as dumbbells, barbells, cable machines, weight plates and chains to target all the muscle groups.

Resistance training varies a bit from weight training.  During resistance training, a hydraulic pump or elastic band is used as the opposing force against the muscles instead of gravity.  All three serve the same purpose but vary a little bit in there delivery.  With strength training, a majority of the resistance is at the beginning of the motion.  Hydraulic resistance is pretty smooth through the entire range and the elastic resistance provides the greatest resistance near the end of the motion when the elastic is fully stretched.

All three will help to increase strength and muscular hypertrophy and will also help tone and define your muscles.  I would recommend incorporating all three types of strength training into a consistent weekly routine that also includes a good cardio program and a well balanced diet!

Good luck, train hard!