I want to include cardiovascular training 3 to 4 times per week when at the gym. Is it better to do cardio training before or after lifting weights?
There really is no rule-of-thumb as to whether cardio training should be done prior to strength training or vice versa. Completing the cardio portion of your training session first provides a great warm-up for strength training. However, if you complete the strength training portion first, you may find that you’re less fatigued and able to lift heavier weight. It really boils down to what works best for you. Once you begin lifting weights, follow these basics to optimize strength and muscle gains: • Start with multiple-joint exercises (e.g., bench press, squats) when fatigue is minimal, then proceed to single-joint exercise (e.g., leg extensions, arm and leg curls). • Train large muscle groups before small muscle groups. • Complete higher intensity exercises before lower intensity exercises.
