Here’s the fun part: you don’t have to pick a side like it’s a sports team. You can mix it up like a DJ blending beats. Try a short cardio warm-up (5-10 minutes) before lifting, then finish with a cool-down jog or a short HIIT session. That way, you get the best of both worlds—a prepped engine and a sweaty finish line.
Or, you could just do cardio on its own days and strength on others, like a civilized human being. That’s what the pros call “programming.” But what do I know? I’m just the person typing this while eating a protein bar and pretending I’m not judging your gym playlist.
Cardio Before Or After Weights: Which Works Best For You?
One Golden Rule (Yes, Just One)
No matter when you do it, don’t let cardio steal your joy. If you hate running, don’t run—swim, bike, dance, or chase your dog around the yard. The best cardio is the one you’ll actually do, not the one that makes you want to fake an injury.
Also, please don’t be that person who spends 45 minutes on a treadmill at a snail’s pace while scrolling Instagram. That’s not cardio—that’s a slow, distracted walk, and your heart is laughing at you. Pick up the pace, or go home and watch the show properly.
