Are you someone who likes to lift weights but also wants to incorporate some cardio into your routine? If so, you may be wondering what type of cardio you should do after lifting to maximize your results. In this article, we will discuss the best types of cardio to do after lifting and why they are effective.
Why You Should Incorporate Cardio After Lifting
After a heavy lifting session, your body is in a state of high metabolic demand. This means that your body is burning calories at a faster rate than it would be at rest. By performing cardio after lifting, you can take advantage of this increased metabolic state and burn even more calories.
Additionally, performing cardio after lifting can help to increase blood flow to your muscles, which can aid in recovery and growth. This increased blood flow can also help to flush out waste products that build up during exercise, such as lactic acid.
The Best Types of Cardio to Do After Lifting
When it comes to choosing the best type of cardio to do after lifting, there are a few factors to consider. First, you want to choose a type of cardio that is low-impact and won't put too much stress on your joints. Second, you want to choose a type of cardio that will allow you to maintain an elevated heart rate for an extended period of time.
With these factors in mind, some of the best types of cardio to do after lifting include:
1. Walking
Walking is a great low-impact form of cardio that can be easily incorporated into your post-lifting routine. Walking for 20-30 minutes after lifting can help to increase blood flow and burn additional calories.
2. Cycling
Cycling is another great option for cardio after lifting. Like walking, cycling is low-impact and can be done for an extended period of time. If you have access to a stationary bike, try cycling for 20-30 minutes after lifting.
3. Swimming
Swimming is a great total-body workout that is low-impact and can help to increase blood flow to your muscles. If you have access to a pool, try swimming for 20-30 minutes after lifting.
4. Rowing
Rowing is a full-body workout that can help to improve cardiovascular fitness and increase blood flow to your muscles. If you have access to a rowing machine, try rowing for 20-30 minutes after lifting.
Question and Answer
Q: Can I do high-intensity interval training (HIIT) after lifting?
A: Yes, you can incorporate HIIT into your post-lifting routine. However, it's important to make sure you are properly warmed up before starting high-intensity exercise. Additionally, be sure to listen to your body and adjust the intensity as needed.
Q: How long should I do cardio after lifting?
A: Aim for 20-30 minutes of cardio after lifting. This should be enough time to maintain an elevated heart rate and burn additional calories.
Q: Should I do cardio before or after lifting?
A: It's generally recommended to do cardio after lifting. This is because lifting weights requires more energy and can deplete your glycogen stores. By doing cardio after lifting, you can tap into your fat stores and burn more calories.
Q: Can I do the same type of cardio every time I workout?
A: It's generally recommended to switch up your cardio routine to prevent boredom and ensure you are challenging your body in new ways. Try incorporating different types of cardio, such as walking, cycling, swimming, and rowing, into your post-lifting routine.
Conclusion of What Cardio Should I Do After Lifting
Incorporating cardio into your post-lifting routine can help to increase calorie burn, improve cardiovascular fitness, and aid in muscle recovery. By choosing low-impact forms of cardio that allow you to maintain an elevated heart rate for an extended period of time, such as walking, cycling, swimming, and rowing, you can maximize the benefits of your workout. Remember to switch up your cardio routine to prevent boredom and challenge your body in new ways.
