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By: Lake Forest Staff
It’s a question people have been asking for ages—when do I do my cardio during my workout? Luckily, it doesn’t have to be as difficult as we can make it out to be. Keep reading for some easy tips on when to incorporate your cardio into your routine.
Making the decision of what to do first for your workout often depends on what’s most important to you in your workout. Are you more interested in lifting, or do you prefer to dedicate most of your time to cardio? Once you can pinpoint what your preferences are on the fitness floor, you’ll be better equipped to make this decision.
Are you training for a race, or maybe you just want to be able to do your cardio for longer? Whatever your cardio goals, prolonged cardio sessions can deplete your energy, making you more tired for your strength-training session. If the focus of your workout is going to be your run or cardio session, prioritize it and do it first, before picking up the dumbbells.
When your priority is building muscle mass, that calls for heading to the free weights or cable machines first. You’ll have more energy to lift heavier and for more reps than if you had tired yourself out with too much cardio beforehand. Cardio can be used as a quick cool-down after strength training to help loosen your muscles.
Studies have shown that strength training can aid in fat loss, as it leads to increased muscle mass which in turn may speed up your metabolism. However, weight loss is not the same for everyone, and what works for some people may be different for others depending on their needs and capabilities. It’s important to consult with your healthcare professional.
If you still can’t decide, don’t fret. Simply choose based on what feels right to you. Everyone’s workout routine is different, and that’s where the fun lies. If you have questions, our personal trainers are here to help guide you every step of the way.
Reference:
Mansour, Stephanie. “Is it better to lift weights before or after a cardio workout?” Today. October 18, 2022. https://www.today.com/health/diet-fitness/cardio-before-or-after-weights-rcna52534.
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