Cardio or strength training? Madhuri Dixit's husband Dr. Nene says choosing one is a big fitness mistake

In the world of fitness, there's often a debate about which is better — cardio or strength training. While one focuses on endurance and calorie burn, the other builds muscle and boosts metabolism. But according to Dr. Shriram Nene, actress Madhuri Dixit's husband, a renowned cardiovascular surgeon and health educator, this debate misses the bigger picture. In a YouTube short, he explained why the smartest approach isn’t choosing between the two — it’s combining them.

Cardio, he explained, plays a crucial role in boosting heart health and building endurance. It’s also highly efficient at burning calories in a relatively short amount of time. On the other hand, strength training works by breaking down muscle fibers and rebuilding them, which not only increases muscle mass but also enhances metabolism. He added that resistance training has added benefits, such as improving bone density due to the physical effort of lifting weights.

Cardio and Strength Are Not Interchangeable
Dr. Nene made it clear that one type of workout cannot replace the other. While cardio helps with stamina and calorie burn, strength training is vital for building muscle and maintaining metabolic health. He pointed out that both methods support each other — for instance, stronger muscles can improve overall cardiovascular performance, while a healthy heart supports better output during strength workouts.

His recommendation was straightforward: incorporate both into your routine. This dual approach, he said, helps individuals become more resilient, healthier, and physically stronger over time.

More About Dr. Nene

Known not only for his surgical expertise but also for his role in public health awareness, Dr. Nene frequently uses digital platforms to simplify medical and fitness concepts for everyday audiences. With an impressive medical background — including training at UCLA and a fellowship in cardiovascular and thoracic surgery from the University of Florida — he brings both clinical experience and personal commitment to wellness.

Since moving back to India with his wife, actress Madhuri Dixit, Dr. Nene has ventured into health content creation. Through his YouTube channel and other digital platforms, he continues to share insights on preventive care, lifestyle choices, and holistic fitness.