Are you confused about whether to start your workout with cardio or lifting? Do you want to know which one is better for your fitness goals? Well, you're not alone. Many people struggle with this dilemma. In this blog post, we'll explore the pros and cons of both cardio and lifting, and help you decide which one you should do first.
The Pain Points
Many people find it challenging to decide whether they should start with cardio or lifting. Some individuals want to lose weight, while others aim to build muscle mass. Similarly, some people want to improve their cardiovascular health, while others want to increase their strength. Therefore, the decision to do cardio or lifting first depends on various factors, including your fitness goals, body type, and workout routine.
Should You Do Cardio or Lifting First?
The answer to this question depends on your fitness goals. If your primary goal is to build muscle mass, you should start with lifting. Because lifting requires more energy and strength, you should do it when you're fresh and have maximum energy. On the other hand, if you want to improve your cardiovascular health, you should start with cardio. It will warm up your body, increase your heart rate, and prepare you for the lifting session.
However, if your goal is to lose weight, you can start with either cardio or lifting. Both exercises burn calories, but cardio burns more calories per minute than lifting. Therefore, if you're short on time, you can start with cardio. Nevertheless, if you want to build muscle while losing weight, you should start with lifting. It will help you maintain your muscle mass while shedding fat.
Summary of Main Points
In summary, the decision to do cardio or lifting first depends on your fitness goals. If you want to build muscle, start with lifting. If you want to improve your cardiovascular health, start with cardio. If you want to lose weight, you can start with either exercise, but cardio burns more calories per minute. Ultimately, the best workout routine is the one that you enjoy and can stick to in the long run.
My Personal Experience with Should You Do Cardio or Lifting First
As a fitness enthusiast, I've experimented with various workout routines over the years. When I started my fitness journey, I used to do cardio first and then lifting. However, as I progressed, I realized that lifting first gave me better results. It helped me lift heavier weights and achieve my muscle-building goals faster. However, I still do cardio on my rest days to improve my cardiovascular health.
The Pros and Cons of Doing Cardio First
The pros of doing cardio first are that it warms up your body, increases your heart rate, and burns calories faster. It also helps you improve your endurance and stamina. However, the cons of doing cardio first are that it can tire you out, reduce your energy levels, and affect your lifting performance. It can also lead to muscle loss if you do excessive cardio without lifting.
The Pros and Cons of Doing Lifting First
The pros of doing lifting first are that it helps you lift heavier weights, build muscle mass, and improve your strength. It also burns calories, even after your workout, as your body repairs and builds muscle. However, the cons of doing lifting first are that it can increase your risk of injury, especially if you don't warm up properly. It can also make you feel tired and affect your cardio performance.
How to Incorporate Cardio and Lifting in Your Workout Routine
The best way to incorporate cardio and lifting in your workout routine is to alternate between the two. For example, you can start with lifting on Monday, Wednesday, and Friday, and do cardio on Tuesday, Thursday, and Saturday. Alternatively, you can do both exercises on the same day, but in different sessions. For example, you can do lifting in the morning and cardio in the evening. It's essential to listen to your body and adjust your routine accordingly.
Question and Answer
Q: Should I do cardio or lifting first if I want to lose weight?
A: You can start with either exercise, but cardio burns more calories per minute than lifting. Therefore, if you're short on time, you can start with cardio. Nevertheless, if you want to build muscle while losing weight, you should start with lifting.
Q: Can I do cardio and lifting on the same day?
A: Yes, you can do both exercises on the same day, but in different sessions. For example, you can do lifting in the morning and cardio in the evening.
Q: How long should I do cardio and lifting?
A: The duration of your cardio and lifting sessions depends on your fitness level, workout routine, and goals. However, a general guideline is to do at least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity cardio or 75 minutes of high-intensity cardio per week and strength train all major muscle groups at least twice a week.
Q: What is the best time to do cardio and lifting?
A: The best time to do cardio and lifting depends on your schedule, energy levels, and personal preferences. However, many people prefer to do cardio in the morning and lifting in the afternoon or evening.
Conclusion of Should You Do Cardio or Lifting First
In conclusion, the decision to do cardio or lifting first depends on your fitness goals. If your primary goal is to build muscle, start with lifting. If you want to improve your cardiovascular health, start with cardio. If you want to lose weight, you can start with either exercise, but cardio burns more calories per minute. Ultimately, the best workout routine is the one that you enjoy and can stick to in the long run.
