Is It Good To Do Cardio After Weights

If you are a fitness enthusiast, you have probably heard about the debate on whether it is good to do cardio after weights. Some people argue that doing cardio after weights can help burn more calories and improve cardiovascular health, while others believe that it can interfere with muscle growth and recovery. In this article, we will explore the pros and cons of doing cardio after weights and provide you with some tips on how to do it effectively.

Table of Contents

1. How to Do Cardio After Weights
2. Step-by-Step Guide
3. Tips for Doing Cardio After Weights
4. Solution to the Debate
5. FAQs
6. Pros and Cons

How to Do Cardio After Weights

Before we dive into the pros and cons, let's first discuss how to do cardio after weights. There are several ways to incorporate cardio into your weightlifting routine:

• Complete a cardio session after your weightlifting workout. This can include running, cycling, or using the elliptical machine.
• Do cardio in between weightlifting sets. For example, you can do a set of squats, followed by a minute of jumping jacks, then another set of squats.
• Alternate between weightlifting and cardio days. For example, you can lift weights on Monday, Wednesday, and Friday, and do cardio on Tuesday and Thursday.

Step-by-Step Guide

Here is a step-by-step guide on how to do cardio after weights:

1. Start with a warm-up. Before you begin your weightlifting workout, do a five-minute warm-up on the treadmill or elliptical machine.
2. Do your weightlifting workout. Make sure to focus on compound exercises that work multiple muscle groups, such as squats, deadlifts, and bench presses.
3. Take a five-minute break. After your weightlifting workout, take a five-minute break to catch your breath and hydrate.
4. Do your cardio workout. Choose a cardio exercise that you enjoy and do it for 20-30 minutes at a moderate intensity.
5. Cool down. After your cardio workout, do a five-minute cool-down on the treadmill or elliptical machine.

Tips for Doing Cardio After Weights

Here are some tips to help you do cardio after weights:

• Make sure to fuel your body properly before and after your workout. Eat a balanced meal that includes carbohydrates, protein, and healthy fats.
• Drink plenty of water before, during, and after your workout to stay hydrated.
• Start with a low-intensity cardio workout and gradually increase the duration and intensity as your fitness level improves.
• Listen to your body and take breaks when needed. If you feel tired or lightheaded, take a break and hydrate.
• Stretch after your workout to prevent muscle soreness and improve flexibility.

Solution to the Debate

So, is it good to do cardio after weights? The answer is, it depends. If your goal is to improve cardiovascular health and burn more calories, then doing cardio after weights can be beneficial. However, if your goal is to build muscle and increase strength, then doing cardio after weights may interfere with muscle growth and recovery.

The best solution is to find a balance between weightlifting and cardio that works for your fitness goals. You can alternate between weightlifting and cardio days, or do a combination of both in the same workout. Just make sure to listen to your body and adjust your workout as needed.

FAQs

Q: Can I do cardio before weights?

A: Yes, you can do cardio before weights. However, it is recommended to do a proper warm-up before your weightlifting workout to prevent injury.

Q: How much cardio should I do after weights?

A: The amount of cardio you do after weights depends on your fitness level and goals. It is recommended to do 20-30 minutes of moderate-intensity cardio after your weightlifting workout.

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 your body enough time to recover between workouts.

Pros and Cons

Pros:

• Burns more calories
• Improves cardiovascular health
• Increases endurance

Cons:

• Can interfere with muscle growth and recovery
• Can cause fatigue and decrease performance
• May not be suitable for people with joint problems

Overall, doing cardio after weights can be beneficial for some people, but it may not be suitable for everyone. It is important to find a workout routine that works for your fitness level and goals, and to listen to your body to prevent injury and fatigue.