Not only can it help you burn off some extra calories, but it can also improve your overall cardiovascular health. But with so many cardio options out there, how do you know which one is the best for your post-strength training?
Don’t worry. We’ve got you covered! We’re going to be breaking down the top cardio exercises you should be doing after your strength training session and so much more.
So if you are looking for a way to up your cardio game, keep reading and let us help you figure out just how to do that!
What Are Your Options?
Alright, so let’s dive into the options for cardio after strength training. There are a lot of options out there, and honestly, the decision of which one to choose is really up to you.
But we thought we’d take a look at some of the most effective options, so here are some of those:
- Running: Whether you prefer to hit the pavement or hop on a treadmill, running is a great way to increase your heart rate and put off some extra calories.
- Cycling: This is another great option that you can do both outdoors or indoors, depending on the availability and your preferences.
- Jumping rope: Though this may seem just like a childhood pastime, jumping rope can be a killer cardio workout. It’s a low-impact option that can still help you burn a ton of calories and improve your coordination.
- Group fitness class: things like Zumba or kickboxing are also great options. Many of these classes incorporate both strength training and cardio moves for a full-body workout that will leave you feeling energized and accomplished.
- Swimming: It is a low-impact option that’s easy on your joints and a full-body workout that can help you build endurance and strength.
Should You Do One Type of Cardio Exercise or More?
Sticking to one type of cardio exercise can be beneficial for consistency and progress tracking.
For example, if you decide to run three times a week, you can easily track your progress over time by donating your pace, distance, and time. You may also be more likely to stick to the routine if you enjoy the exception chosen.
However, mixing up your cardio exercise can prevent boredom and reduce the risk of overuse injuries. If you do the same exercise every day, your body may become accustomed to it, and you may not see as much progress as you would with a variety of exercises.
Mixing it up can also target different muscle groups to improve overall fitness. So as the verdict?
Ultimately it’s up to the personal preferences and goals of you. If you enjoy writing and it helps you stay consistent with your workouts, go for it!
But if you’re feeling bored or have hit a plateau, mixing it up with different exercises like cycling, swimming, or a group fitness class can be very beneficial.
How To Tell Which One Works the Best for You?
Different cardio exercises can help you achieve different goals, so choosing one that aligns with what you want to achieve is important. Also, you need to think about what you enjoy.
For example, if you hate running, it’s unlikely you’ll stick to a running routine. So instead, consider trying out different types of cardio, like cycling, swimming, or a dance class, to define what you enjoy the most.
Another thing to consider is your current fitness level. For example, if you’re just starting, a low-impact exercise like walking or swimming may be a better option than a high-impact exercise like running or kickboxing.
For How Long Should You Do It?
The American Heart Association recommends at least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity cardio exercise per week or 75 minutes of vigorous-intensity exercise. The way you break it up then is really up to you and your schedule.
Of course, these are just general guidelines and the amount of cardio exercise you need for individual fitness goals and levels. If you’re just starting, it’s OK to start with shorter durations and work your way up as you become more comfortable with the exercise.
Why is Cardio Recommended After Strength Training?
Why even bother with cardio in the first place? Many people ask this question, and it’s a valid question, but there are a lot of reasons why physicians and experts suggest adding cardio to your routines, especially after strength training.
Here are a few of the reasons this is so important:
- Cardio exercise can help to improve blood flow to your muscles, increase endurance, and increase your risk of cardiovascular disease.
- After strength training, cardio can help to increase blood flow to your muscles, as we’ve said, which can help to flush out waste products and provide the nutrients and oxygen muscles need to recover.
- It can help to burn more calories. Doing cardio exercise after strength training can help boost your calorie burn even further, as your body will continue to burn calories even after your workout.
- It can also be a great way to cool down and stretch out your muscles, allowing your muscles to gradually return to their resting state.
Final Thoughts on Best Cardio After Strength Training
Cardio exercises can be a great addition to your fitness routine, whether you’re doing it after strength training or on its own.
Remember, though, you need to listen to your body, start slowly, and gradually increase the duration and intensity of your workout over time. Then, with consistency and patience, you’ll find the right balance that works best for you.