Is It Better to Do Cardio or Strength Training First? Trainer Reveals the Answer
The short answer? It depends, TODAY contributor and personal trainer for the Start TODAY app Stephanie Mansour says.
'The simple answer is to do either (order) — whichever you are more likely to do consistently,' Mansour previously told TODAY.com. 'But getting the maximum benefit may depend on which type of cardio you're doing — and what your overall health goals are.'
For an expert-designed plan that helps you get the most out of your workout by strategically incorporating both strength and cardio, download the Start TODAY app.
Trainer Tip of the Day: Should You Start With Cardio or Strength-Training?
The most important thing, Mansour says, is that whatever order you choose works with your routine and will make you want to continue exercising.
'Stick with what's working and build off that," she advises. "If you feel motivated to do your 20-minute walk and you're looking to add in strength training ... walk first since it's already part of your routine. Then you can add on strength training after.'
But if you want to maximize your fitness results, the order can matter, Mansour explains.
Cardio first: People who are focused on building endurance should do cardio first because it depletes your energy stores, building up both cardiovascular and muscular endurance.
Strength training first: This is the best order for people looking build muscle mass, lose fat and boost metabolism.
Why It Matters
While it's natural to worry about making the most of your workouts, "what works for one person will be different from what works for another," Mansour says. "The key is to work with your body and your existing habits to continue making progress toward your health goals."
At the end of the day, what's most important is that you're getting the recommended amount of exercise a week — 150 minutes of moderate-intensity cardio activity per week, as well as moderate- to high-intensity strength training two or three times a week, according to the American Heart Association.
This could be a Full-Body Kettlebell Workout, a 20-Minute Upper Body Burn, or a bodyweight strength workout comprised of staple moves like squats and planks, all available in the Start TODAY app.
How to Get Started
If you already like a type of exercise, then keep doing it.
And if it only involves either strength-training or cardio, then try to add what you're not already doing, either before or after your favorite exercise — whichever is easiest to stick with and aligns with your health goals.
For example, if you enjoy hitting the weight room, Mansour suggests using your cardio workout 'as a cool down' afterward if you don't like high intensity activities. Try the Start TODAY app's walking podcast with Al Roker or an inspirational chat with a personal trainer to motivate you to get those steps in and make cardio more enjoyable.
TODAY's Expert Tip of the Day series is all about simple strategies to make life a little easier. Every Monday through Friday, different qualified experts share their best advice on diet, fitness, heart health, mental wellness and more.
This article was originally published on TODAY.com
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