Are you someone who enjoys working out and wants to get the most out of your gym session? If so, you may have wondered whether it is better to do cardio before or after weights. This is a common question that many fitness enthusiasts have, and finding the right answer can make a big difference in your workout routine.
When it comes to working out, everyone has different goals and preferences. Some people prefer to focus solely on cardio, while others prioritize weightlifting. However, if you're looking to build muscle and lose fat, it's important to find the right balance between cardio and weightlifting.
The short answer to the question of whether it is better to do cardio after weights is yes, it is. But let's take a closer look at why that is and what the benefits are.
Cardio after weights can help you burn more calories and fat. When you lift weights, your body uses stored carbohydrates for energy. However, after your weightlifting session, your body is in a state where it has used up most of the stored carbohydrates, leaving it with little energy. This is the perfect time to do cardio since your body will have to use stored fat as fuel, leading to more effective fat burning.
Additionally, doing cardio after weights can improve your endurance and overall fitness level. By completing a weightlifting session first, you will have already depleted some of your energy, making your cardio session more challenging. This added challenge can help improve your endurance and overall fitness level.
The Personal Experience
I used to do cardio before weightlifting, thinking it would warm up my body and prepare me for lifting weights. However, I never really saw the results I was hoping for. After doing some research, I decided to switch up my routine and start doing cardio after weightlifting. I noticed a significant improvement in my endurance and saw more results in my weight loss journey.
The Benefits of Doing Cardio After Weights
Aside from burning more calories and fat, doing cardio after weights has several other benefits. For example, it can help improve your heart health, increase your metabolism, and lead to better sleep. Additionally, doing cardio after weights can help prevent injury by preparing your muscles and joints for the added stress of cardio.
The Science Behind Cardio After Weights
According to research, doing cardio after weights can lead to greater fat burning and calorie expenditure. When you lift weights, your body uses up stored carbohydrates for energy. Completing a cardio session after weightlifting can help your body shift to using stored fat as fuel, leading to more effective fat burning.
How to Incorporate Cardio After Weights into Your Routine
If you're used to doing cardio before weights, switching up your routine may seem daunting. However, it's important to start slowly and build up your endurance. Begin by doing a short cardio session after your weightlifting session, then gradually increase the duration and intensity over time.
My Personal Experience
After switching to doing cardio after weights, I noticed a significant improvement in my overall fitness level. I was able to run longer distances without feeling as tired or winded, and I saw a significant decrease in my body fat percentage. Additionally, I was able to lift heavier weights during my weightlifting sessions.
Question and Answer
Q: Is it bad to do cardio before weights?
A: It's not necessarily bad, but it may not be as effective for fat burning and calorie expenditure. Doing cardio after weights can lead to greater fat burning and overall fitness improvement.
Q: How long should I wait to do cardio after weights?
A: It's recommended to wait at least 30 minutes after weightlifting to begin your cardio session. This allows your body to recover and replenish some of the energy used during weightlifting.
Q: How often should I do cardio after weights?
A: It's recommended to do cardio after weights 2-3 times per week, depending on your fitness goals and overall workout routine.
Q: Can I do both cardio and weights on the same day?
A: Yes, it is possible to do both cardio and weights on the same day. However, it's important to properly warm up and cool down, and to give your body enough time to recover between sessions.
Conclusion of Is it Better to Do Cardio After Weights
Overall, doing cardio after weights can lead to greater fat burning, improved endurance, and overall fitness improvement. It's important to find the right balance between cardio and weightlifting, and to start slowly when incorporating cardio after weights into your routine. By doing so, you can achieve your fitness goals and see the results you're looking for.
