Trainers explain why there isn’t a magic formula when it comes to doing cardio or weights first.
The short answer is that it largely depends on your goals.
Plus, it could lead to fatigue and poor performance, thus increasing your risk of injury.
Your muscles work the same way," says Liles.
Science backs up the weights-before-cardio plan.
Results showed that their performance on the strength moves was significantly compromised after the aerobic workouts.
Muscle cells store something called glycogen, which fuels muscular contractions, explains McCall.
Glycogen is made from carbohydrates that your body breaks down into fuel.
When your body converts glycogen into energy it becomesadenosine triphosphate, otherwise known as ATP.
This process produces byproducts that can be recycled back into ATP and used as energy, explains McCall.
Will Cardio or Weights First Help You Lose Weight?
That said, you shouldn’t skip cardio altogether.
In terms of designing a concurrent workout, there isn’t a magic formula, according to Sternlicht.
“You have to do whatever fits your lifestyle and schedule,” he says.
Whatever you choose, it’s a good idea to mix it up every once in a while.
And confirm you don’t over-fatigue one muscle group.
