"Cardio Before Weights? Think Again!"
- Miguel Mota
- Mar 20
- 2 min read
Starting with cardio may seem beneficial, but it can drain energy reserves and disrupt hormone balance, reducing strength training effectiveness.

If your trying to lose some weight this may be a smarter approach.
Energy Drain
Cardio depletes glycogen stores, leaving less fuel for lifting. This leads to fatigue, weaker performance, and a higher injury risk.
1.Reduced Risk of Overuse Injuries
Fatiguing stabilizing muscles through cardio first can compromise joint integrity during lifts, increasing injury risk. Strength first keeps you controlled and stable.
Use Your energy wisely.
2. Better Neuromuscular Coordination
Strength training requires focus, precision, and proper form. ( Energy ) .Doing it first ensures your nervous system is sharp, reducing the likelihood of technical breakdown and injury.
Hormonal Impact
Cardio first can spike cortisol, hindering muscle growth and recovery. Strength training first optimizes testosterone and growth hormone for better results.
( Ladies, you're safe with testosterone—your body naturally regulates your T levels )

Smarter Approach
Prioritize weights before cardio for maximum strength, muscle growth, and hormonal balance. Consider separating sessions for optimal results.
1. Strength and Power Output
Lifting first ensures your muscles are fresh, allowing you to generate maximum force. Fatiguing them with cardio first can reduce power output, limiting strength gains and increasing injury risk.
2. Improved Fat Utilization
When you do cardio after lifting, your glycogen stores are already partially depleted, encouraging your body to burn more fat for fuel. This enhances fat loss efficiency while preserving muscle mass.Train smart for long-term gains.
3. Cardiovascular Endurance Gains Remain Intact
Research shows that doing cardio after weights doesn’t negatively impact endurance improvements, but the reverse can hinder strength and muscle gains.
Best,
Miguel
Pain Free Strength LLC
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