Are you confused about whether to start with strength training or cardio first in your workout routine? It can be a tough decision to make, especially if you’re new to fitness. But don’t worry, we’ve got you covered. In this blog post, we’ll discuss the pros and cons of starting with strength training or cardio and which one is best for you. Keep reading to find out!
Why is it important to know whether to start with strength training or cardio?
Knowing whether to start with strength training or cardio is important because it affects your workout performance and results. If you don’t start with the right exercise, you may not be able to perform your best in your workout, which can lead to injury or lack of progress. Additionally, starting with the right exercise can help you achieve your fitness goals faster and more efficiently.
Pros and Cons of Starting with Strength Training
Strength training involves using weights or resistance to build muscle and improve strength. Here are some pros and cons of starting with strength training:
Pros:
- Strength training can help you build muscle and improve strength.
- It can increase your metabolism and help you burn more calories throughout the day.
- Strength training can improve your bone density and reduce the risk of osteoporosis.
Cons:
- Starting with strength training can be challenging if you’re new to fitness.
- It can be time-consuming, especially if you’re doing a full-body workout.
- Strength training can be taxing on your muscles and may affect your cardio performance.
Pros and Cons of Starting with Cardio
Cardio involves activities that increase your heart rate and help you burn calories. Here are some pros and cons of starting with cardio:
Pros:
- Cardio can improve your overall fitness and endurance.
- It can help you burn calories and lose weight.
- Cardio is easy to incorporate into your workout routine.
Cons:
- Starting with cardio can be monotonous and boring.
- It may not help you build muscle or improve strength as much as strength training.
- Cardio can be taxing on your joints, especially if you’re doing high-impact exercises.
Which one should you start with?
Now that we’ve discussed the pros and cons of starting with strength training or cardio, which one should you start with? The answer depends on your fitness goals and preferences. If you’re looking to build muscle and improve strength, starting with strength training may be the best option for you. On the other hand, if you’re looking to improve your endurance and burn calories, starting with cardio may be the way to go.
However, if you’re short on time, you can combine both strength training and cardio in one workout. For example, you can do a circuit workout that includes strength exercises and cardio intervals. This way, you can get the benefits of both types of exercise in one session.
Personal Experience with Starting with Strength Training or Cardio
For me, I prefer to start with strength training because it helps me build muscle and improve my overall fitness. I usually do a full-body workout that includes compound exercises like squats, deadlifts, and bench presses. After strength training, I’ll do some cardio to help me burn more calories and improve my endurance.
Tips for Starting with Strength Training or Cardio
Starting with Strength Training:
- Start with light weights and focus on proper form.
- Do compound exercises that work multiple muscle groups.
- Gradually increase the weight and volume of your workouts.
Starting with Cardio:
- Choose an activity that you enjoy, such as running, cycling, or swimming.
- Start with a moderate intensity and gradually increase the duration and intensity of your workouts.
- Incorporate interval training to make your cardio workouts more challenging and effective.
Question and Answer
Q: Can I do strength training and cardio on the same day?
A: Yes, you can do both types of exercise on the same day. Just make sure to give your muscles enough time to recover between workouts.
Q: How often should I do strength training and cardio?
A: It depends on your fitness goals and schedule. Ideally, you should aim to do strength training at least twice a week and cardio at least three times a week.
Q: Should I do strength training or cardio first if I’m short on time?
A: If you’re short on time, you can do a circuit workout that combines both types of exercise. Alternatively, you can do a quick cardio warm-up before your strength training workout.
Q: Is it better to do cardio before or after strength training?
A: It depends on your fitness goals. If you’re looking to build muscle, it’s better to do strength training first. However, if you’re looking to improve your endurance, it’s better to do cardio first.
Conclusion of What Should You Do First Strength Training or Cardio
Deciding whether to start with strength training or cardio can be a tough decision, but it’s important to choose the right exercise to achieve your fitness goals. Both types of exercise offer unique benefits, so it’s up to you to decide which one is best for you. Whether you choose to start with strength training, cardio, or a combination of both, make sure to listen to your body and gradually increase the intensity and duration of your workouts.
