The key difference is that resistance training can be bodyweight, banded or weighted – anything that creates a resistance against gravity.

Strength training is normally low reps, high weight

“Strength training, on the other hand, is more about building strength and utilising time under tension – which means lower reps at a higher weight,” explains PT Caroline Bragg.

Resistance training can use any equipment

“Resistance training could be mean using bodyweight, or a resistance band, free weights or anything where you’re pushing or pulling against something with added resistance.”

So pilates or barre can count as resistance training because many of the moves are about resisting gravity and moving in ways our bodies don’t usually. While both practices can help to build serious strength, they’re not actually types of strength training because they don’t involve weights and tend to focus on muscular endurance over hypertrophy or power.

Resistance and strength training have different goals

“Strength is not the main goal of resistance training,” explains SWTC trainer Emma Obayuvana. “Strength training is where you are lifting heavy at low reps and specifically training to get stronger.”

What’s the difference between strength and resistance training?