Question:
I always wondered if I should do cardio and strength training on the same day to maximize my results. What do you think?
(Tanya, Port Washington)
Answer:
I recommend doing cardio on your days off from weight lifting. When you weight train, the muscles get micro-tears. During rest they heal and your muscles increase in strength. Ideally, you want to keep separate any interference you get from muscle tissue repair. However, if your schedule keeps you from doing this and you are overweight, remember to do your cardio after you strength train. Lifting weights can cause a drop in glycogen levels and you will use fat as your fuel during your post workout cardio which should be no more than 15 to 20 minutes. If done in reverse, you will compromise your strength to push that iron at full capacity. Muscles burn more calories at rest than fat. Remember it is the total calories that you burn that will make the difference in your body composition.
