The best approach to incorporating cardio into your workout routine depends on your specific fitness goals. Here are some considerations:
- Cardio before weights: If your primary goal is to improve cardiovascular fitness or you are training for an endurance event, doing cardio before weights can be beneficial. It can help raise your heart rate, warm up your muscles, and increase your overall energy levels for the workout. However, if you do intense cardio before weight training, it may slightly compromise your strength and performance during the weightlifting session.
- Weights before cardio: If your main goal is to build muscle, increase strength, or improve power, it’s generally recommended to do weight training before cardio. Weight training requires a lot of energy and focus, so doing it when you are fresh can help you lift heavier weights and maximize your muscle gains. You can still do a short cardio session after weight training as a cool-down.
- Separate days: If you have the time and energy, you can also opt for separate days for cardio and weight training. This approach allows you to focus completely on each type of workout without compromising one for the other. It can be a good option if you have specific goals for both cardiovascular fitness and strength/muscle building.
Ultimately, the best approach is the one that aligns with your goals, schedule, and preferences. Experiment with different strategies to see what works best for you. Just remember to listen to your body, stay consistent, and adjust your routine as needed based on your progress and how you feel.