Cardio Timing -2 

Is there a best time for weight loss and fat burning? 

Now if performing cardio first thing in the morning is not an option for you, or you’re just not a “morning” person, then the second best option is to do it immediately after your weight training. Muscles primarily burn carbohydrates during exercise, and a 45-60 minute weight training session will leave your stored carbohydrate levels almost as depleted as when you first awaken in the morning. This is why a post weight training cardio session has a similar effect on weight loss and fat burning as morning cardio on an empty stomach.  

A second benefit you'll receive from early morning cardio is what can be termed the "after burn" effect. Although not as effective as weight training, aerobic exercise nevertheless will keep your metabolism boosted after you leave the gym. This means that you’ll be burning more calories throughout the day compared to if you left it till later in the day. You’ll still experience fat burning and weight loss from a late evening session, but as soon as you go to sleep you’ll lose the “afterburn” effect as your metabolism drops sharply when you fall asleep. In fact while you’re asleep, your metabolic rate is lower than at any other time of the day. 

Is it necessary? 

Hopefully readers don’t get the impression that they absolutely must do their cardio early in the morning. Family responsibilities, work or school scheduling may require you to do your cardio later in the day. As we said earlier, the bottom line is that you are doing it sometime during the day – and at least 3 to 4 times per week. But for those who have the time and desire to maximize their weight loss and fat burning potential by doing their cardio training early in the morning, you won’t be disappointed with the tremendous difference it will make to your fitness.