Deciding whether to do cardio or weights first is seemingly a simple question and yet deserves a complex answer that ultimately will end with “It depends”.
To start, it is very difficult to “ride two horses with one saddle”. In other words, trying to be a World-Class marathon runner and a World Class powerlifter at the same time is nearly impossible.
You need to choose which goal is most important to you and focus on that first.
If cardio is more important then do your cardio and then go lift weights. If weight lifting is more important then you should lift weights before running.
For my clients, unless they were “Born To Run”, I coach them to emphasize strength training first.
It takes longer to develop strength and muscle as well as a bigger commitment to do so.
Simply because adaptations in the body are regulated by the amount of blood flow, it just doesn’t take long to see a positive outcome with a cardio workout. Some research has shown that the mitochondria can become stronger with as little as one workout!
Combine that with the little amount of equipment that you need to do in cardio (a decent pair of shoes and some shorts) in addition to the low barrier to entry – this will be easier for you to do when “you’re busy”.
With strength training, it can take two to three months before your muscles begin to get denser. Another six months or so for the bones to thicken up, and, nine-plus months for your tendons to strengthen.
Plus, you will need access to a gym and equipment for all of the best exercises. If you don’t make it a priority then it can be very easy to not do it all.
It is also my belief that stronger, more flexible people can move more which helps them perform “cardio” for longer periods of time and get a much more long-lasting and meaningful result.
Train Consistently.
Train Smart.
Can’t Lose.
Nate
P.S. However you’re ready, here are 3 ways I can help you get happier and healthier:
1. Come in for a Custom Fitness Consultation
We’ll sit down together and discuss your goals, simple steps you can take to achieve them, and see if there is a way to work together to give you the coaching and support you need to get the results you want quickly.
If you’d like to discuss a meeting for a Consultation, just reply and put ‘Consult’ in the subject line and I’ll follow up with you.
2. Do My 10 Years Younger Challenge
Accelerate your fitness & fat loss results…with my proven & guaranteed program where you’ll double your strength and flexibility in just 30 days.
Just hit Reply and put ‘Challenge’ in the subject line and I’ll send you over details.
3. Train With Me From Anywhere.
If you can’t make it to my facility in Austin, you can still train with the best!
We can train you on Zoom, FaceTime, Facebook Messenger, or almost any video software that you prefer.
This is exactly like personal training, but it’s anywhere you need it to be, and it’s even more affordable.
Leave a Reply