Strength training first or cardio on empty stomach first?
I’m a light weight body builder who has always done cardio first thing in the morning on an empty stomach. Did a 1/2 marathon last year and was very successful. Now going back to body building but I want to change my workouts. I would like to strength train 1st thing in the morning and do cardio later in the afternoon. Will I see the same success?
Wow this question has created quite the controversy. Well Brenda, when I did the Body-for-LIFE Challenge in 1999 I worked out on an empty stomach all the time and had incredible results (enough to beat out 10,000 other competitors to win Men’s 18-25 Round 6 Category). However, that being said and being older now it really depends on your energy level and of course your goal.
Some people will say you have to eat before you workout to keep your muscle. My experience and several am clients can and do well working out on an empty stomach. Other clients can not get through their workout and get light headed if they workout with eat first.
My advice: Try both but have a protein shake or piece of fruit or both on stand by in case you can not complete your workout. Also, your workout should be strong and make sure you are using the same weights as you were in the afternoon sessions. If you find yourself getting weaker and lifting less then you definitely need more protein and most likely need to eat prior to lifting in the morning.
The question I will ask you is are you taking a pre-workout drink? Or drinking coffee in the am before your workout? My clients and myself have found this gives them plenty of energy to “kill” their morning workouts. Just make sure you have a good 2:1 – 4:1 ratio of carbs to protein post workout meal with you or on stand by to be consumed within 15-45 mins after your lifting session.
I would like to know what you come up with. Bottom line: everyone is difference. You have to see what works for your body. None of us has the same “genetics”. This is the missing link in everyones answer. “Same success”? You have to find this out for yourself! Best of luck on your journey!
Nathan Rose
www.nathanrose.info