Your body breaks down carbohydrates into glucose. Glycogen stores are the storage form of glucose in the liver and muscles (2400 to 3000 calories) that your body uses during weight training and cardiovascular exercise. During weight training, glycogen is the primary energy source used. Therefore, doing your cardiovascular routine before weight training will significantly deplete your energy (glycogen), needed to complete a proper weight training routine. Completing your weight training before cardiovascular activity will considerably decrease your glycogen stores. So, when you begin your cardiovascular program your body burns less glycogen and more of your stored fat. I recommend doing between 20-30 minutes of cardiovascular exercise after your weight training program.
In summary, it takes approximately 20 minutes of cardiovascular exercise to reach your optimal fat burning zone. To have the proper energy to utilize an effective exercise program, do your weight training routine before your cardiovascular training.
Please consult a physician before starting an exercise program.
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