sof pt

Conditioning vs Cardio

Military Fitness
January 22, 2026•1 min read

Conditioning vs Cardio

Core Difference
Cardio refers broadly to aerobic exercise, while conditioning is the structured development of work tolerance, fatigue resistance, and recovery capacity.

Cardio Characteristics
Cardio often emphasizes steady-state or recreational aerobic activity with minimal progression or specificity.

Conditioning Characteristics
Conditioning is deliberate, progressive, and aligned with performance demands, often integrating multiple energy systems.

Why the Difference Matters
Cardio alone may improve general fitness but often fails to prepare individuals for repeated or high-demand tasks.

Key Takeaway
Conditioning is purposeful cardio with intent and structure.

What Is Training Load? | What Is Fatigue? | What Is Recovery?

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Combat Fitness exists to produce capable humans. Tactical fitness for military, law enforcement, and people who refuse to be weak. We focus on strength, work capacity, endurance, and resilience that transfer outside the gym. No trends. No feel-good bullshit. Just hard training for people who expect more from themselves.

Combat Fitness

Combat Fitness exists to produce capable humans. Tactical fitness for military, law enforcement, and people who refuse to be weak. We focus on strength, work capacity, endurance, and resilience that transfer outside the gym. No trends. No feel-good bullshit. Just hard training for people who expect more from themselves.

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