The age-old fitness question: should you hit the treadmill *before* or *after* lifting those weights? The answer, like most things fitness, depends on your goals.
**Goal: Strength & Muscle Gain? Weight First!** Starting with weights allows you to tackle your heavier lifts with maximum energy and focus. Cardio beforehand could fatigue your muscles, hindering your strength performance and potentially increasing your risk of injury.
**Goal: Endurance & Fat Loss? It's Complicated!** While weights can still be beneficial for fat loss, cardio takes center stage. Some argue for cardio *after* weights to tap into fat stores more effectively after glycogen depletion. However, if endurance is your primary focus, a short, low-intensity cardio warm-up *before* weights can prime your body without significant fatigue.
**The Bottom Line:** Prioritize your primary goal. Consistency is key! Experiment and see what works best for *your* body and fitness journey. Don't be afraid to split your cardio and weight training into separate sessions for optimal results.
