What should I do first at the gym – strength training or cardio?
Hi Kelli,
I agree with Michael, it depends on the goal of the workout. If strength gains are the goal, the strength overload should be done before cardio. Just be sure to do a 3-5 minute large muscle, rhythmic warm-up (jogging on treadmill, stationary cycling) prior to the strength overload to prepare the fascia, especially if it will be failure strength exercises.
Take care.
Use your goals to dictate the order of cardio or strength training; so, if your goal is to increase muscular strength and endurance, go to the strength training first and if your goal is to increase cardiorespiratory fitness, do your cardio first (of course, you can design workouts to do these things simultaneously, but I guess we’re sticking to simple formulas here). Studies have shown advantages and disadvantages in both cases, but it still boils down to knowing your goals and proceeding with a clear plan. Bottom line: while at your freshest, do the one you most need.