Could someone tell me if I'm supposed to only take protein after doing weights or should I also take it after cardio? In a minute I'm going to be doing Kick, punch and crunch... should I make a protein shake afterwards?
i take protein after both types of workouts b/c it is time for my next meal and my meals consist of proteins, carbs, and fats. i think its fine to have a protein shake after a cardio workout.
You need to restore glycogen after a weight workout, so it's recommended that you take in something with a 4-to-1 ratio of carbs to protein right after exercise, and something with more protein within about 2 hours. Taking the same type of 4-to-1 carbs-to-protein fueling would also be a good idea after a challenging cardio workout.
I used to eat a can of tuna (packed in water of course) after each workout, whether it was cardio and/or weights since both require muscles to work hard. My body really seemed to take advantage of the protein blast during muscle healing. Never tried the shake thing, maybe I will one day.