Final answer:
The main difference between cardio and strength-training activities is that cardio activities improve cardiovascular fitness and endurance, while strength-training activities aim to build and strengthen muscles.
Step-by-step explanation:
The main difference between cardio and strength-training activities lies in the way they work your muscles and the specific benefits they provide. Cardio activities, such as running or cycling, focus on improving your cardiovascular fitness and endurance by increasing your heart rate. Strength-training activities, on the other hand, aim to build and strengthen your muscles through resistance exercises.
A key distinction between the two is the type of contractions involved. In cardio activities, muscles engage in repetitive contractions over an extended period, which leads to improved stamina and calorie burning. In contrast, strength-training activities involve short, intense bursts of muscle contractions against resistance, leading to muscle growth and increased strength.
To exemplify, running is considered a cardio activity as it primarily works the heart and lungs, boosting your endurance. Weightlifting, on the other hand, falls under strength training as it targets individual muscle groups, helping in building strength and muscle mass.
Learn more about Difference between cardio and strength-training activities