Cardio or weights-what to do first?

[dutchgirl]

Hi everyone,

When doing a workout that has you doing both cardio and weights (for ex: S&H shoulders and cardio for 10-10-10) is it best to do the weights first then cardio, or vice versa? Is there a benefit to doing one first then the other or is it a matter of personal preference? I am thinking of doing the June rotation for August (of course, have to see what the August one is before totally committing) and want to make sure that I am getting the most out of the rotation.

BTW, thanks to all who answered my rotation question. I am currently doing the July rotation (started late so am in week one) and am loving the concept. I feel like I am working harder in some ways. It feels great.

Thanks for taking the time to respond
Sabine

 

[ColleenM]

I would do weights and then cardio. If I do my cardio first, I don't have the energy for my weights.

Colleen

 

[Aquajock]

I prefer to do cardio then weights; if I try to do weights first I don't feel like I've warmed up or limbered up properly.

A lot depends on your goals AND personal preference.

A-jock

 

[Me2]

Sometimes I do cardio first in order to warm up my muscles for weights. And I have been told that whichever feels "right" is what you should do. But here is what I read from LifeFitness: "From a physiological standpoint, one should complete strenght training prior to cardio. When we strength train we utilize the PhosoCreatine (PC) energy system and the anaerobic energy system. These energy systems utilize creatine and glucose for fuel. This is the most readily available energy source for activities not utilizing oxygen - or very short duration activity. Typically we have 30-45 minutes worth of strength training fuel. When we begin a cardio workout, we utilize the aerobic energy system. This system will start with the glucose supplies, move to glycogen (muscle glucose stores) then eventually begin "fat burning" in about 20-40 minutes, depending on your fitness level. The more fit you are, the sooner your body begins to utiize fat as energy. If we begin with aerobic activity, theoretically we use up the correct energy source for strength training during our cardio routine. MOreover, if we deplete the majority of our glucose supplies when we strength train, there is some evidence that we will begin to utilize fat more quickly when we begin our cardio routine".

I thought this was interesting and something to consider if fat loss is one of you goals. (Sorry so long)

Linda

 

[kathryn]

Everything I've read (books and women's fitness mags) recommends doing weights before cardio. I actually like to do a "bit" of cardio (like the warm-up to Cardio Kicks, which is about 11 minutes long), then weights, then more cardio (the rest of Cardio Kicks.

 

[trevor]

I think it comes down to personal preference but the common answer I have always gotten, and I believe Cathe said this once, is that whatever activity you want to be better at doing, you do that one first since you'll have more energy then.

 

[gelfling]

I also prefer to do weights first because it leaves me feeling strong and energised: perfect for tackling cardio! Lately I've also started to do abs first because I have a bad back and it helps to keep my core stable for cardio. Some days though, it's nice to do cardio before weights because it feels so relaxing after a hard cardio and it's nice to feel energised instead of knackered afterward
ATB,
- Lisa

 

[Jane P]

This has been very interesting to read. If I'm doing leg work, I can't do cardio on the same day unless I intersperse it, such as in Body Max or Power Circuit. I can't imagine trying to do cardio after PS Legs or S & H legs. I just wouldn't have the energy. Don't know what I'm burning, but do know that my muscles are tired.