Do you ever wonder what cardio to do after weights? You're not alone. Many people struggle with finding the right cardio routine to complement their weight training. But fear not, because in this post, we'll be discussing the best cardio exercises to do after weights.
One of the biggest pain points for people who lift weights is determining the most effective cardio to do after their workout. They want to know what will help them burn fat, improve their cardiovascular health, and enhance their overall fitness level.
The target of this post is to provide you with a comprehensive guide on what cardio to do after weights. We'll be discussing the best types of cardio, how long to do it, and how to integrate it into your workout routine.
To summarize, this post will cover what cardio to do after weights and related keywords to help you achieve your fitness goals.
Cardio Option #1: High-Intensity Interval Training (HIIT)
When it comes to what cardio to do after weights, HIIT is a popular choice. HIIT involves short bursts of high-intensity exercise followed by brief periods of rest. This type of cardio is great for burning fat, increasing endurance, and improving overall fitness.
Personally, I love doing sprints on the treadmill as my HIIT cardio after lifting weights. I'll do 20-30 second sprints followed by 30-60 seconds of rest. I repeat this cycle for about 10-15 minutes.
Cardio Option #2: Steady-State Cardio
Steady-state cardio involves maintaining a consistent pace for an extended period of time. This type of cardio is great for burning calories and improving cardiovascular health.
Personally, I like to do the elliptical machine for 20-30 minutes at a moderate intensity. I find this is a great way to cool down after lifting weights while still getting in a good cardio session.
The Ideal Duration for Cardio After Weights
So, how long should you do cardio after weights? The ideal duration is about 20-30 minutes. This is enough time to get in a good cardio session without exhausting your body.
It's important to note that you shouldn't overdo it with cardio after weights. Your body needs time to recover and repair after lifting, so don't push yourself too hard.
How to Integrate Cardio After Weights into Your Workout Routine
The best way to integrate cardio after weights is to do it at the end of your workout. This way, you've already completed your weight training, and you can focus solely on cardio.
Another option is to do cardio on your off days from lifting. This can be a great way to keep your body moving and active without overworking your muscles.
Cardio Option #3: Group Fitness Classes
If you're looking for a fun and social way to get in your cardio after weights, group fitness classes are a great option. Classes like spin, dance, and kickboxing can provide a great cardio workout while also keeping you motivated and engaged.
Personally, I love taking spin classes after lifting weights. It's a great way to get in a good cardio session while also having fun and listening to great music.
Question and Answer
Q: Should I do cardio before or after weights?
A: It's generally recommended to do weights before cardio. This is because weight training requires more energy and focus, and doing cardio first can leave you feeling too tired to lift effectively.
Q: How many days a week should I do cardio after weights?
A: This depends on your fitness goals and schedule. However, a general rule of thumb is to do cardio after weights 2-3 times per week.
Q: Can I do cardio and weights on the same day?
A: Yes, you can do cardio and weights on the same day. Just make sure to give yourself enough time to recover between the two workouts.
Q: What if I don't have access to a gym?
A: No problem! There are plenty of cardio exercises you can do at home, such as jumping jacks, burpees, and mountain climbers. You can also go for a run or walk outside.
Conclusion of what cardio to do after weights
When it comes to what cardio to do after weights, there are plenty of options to choose from. Whether you prefer HIIT, steady-state cardio, or group fitness classes, the key is to find a cardio routine that you enjoy and that complements your weight training.
Remember, cardio after weights can help you burn fat, improve your cardiovascular health, and enhance your overall fitness level. So don't skip out on this important part of your workout routine!
