Is it better to run post-workout on training days or on your rest days?

[Dkr626]

Suppose that the running is ~5 miles at a comfortably hard pace. I'm on Starting Strength, so I will be squatting heavy every lifting day. Additional calories are being consumed to cover the exercise.

If I workout on Tuesday/Thursday/Saturday, would I be better off having these runs post workout, allowing for an uninterrupted rest day, or having them say Wednesday/Friday/Sunday? The goal in mind is to have the runs interfere with my progression as little as possible.

I completely understand that moderate-high intensity cardio 3x/week probably isn't ideal, but for the situation's sake, let's say it has to be done.

Thanks in advance

[sly_106]

post workout, your glycogen stores will already be depleted and the cardio will be more effective and you'll actually have rest days like youre supposed to

[Dkr626]

post workout, your glycogen stores will already be depleted and the cardio will be more effective and you'll actually have rest days like youre supposed to

Sounds like solid reasoning to me, thank you!

[DYTrainer]

I take the over viewpoint. I know after my workouts, I'm completely wiped out and the thought of running or doing any cardio isnt even in the realm of possibility, especially on a leg day where walking seems to be a challenge for a bit. So if I can barely walk without wanting to stop/pass out, I dont think a cardio session would be all that productive. So depending on other factors, I would either come back later that night to do my cardio, or just wait for the next day. I've found that doing a little cardio on my rest days actually helped my recovery. Not sure if there is any real science to back it up, but I think when you get the blood pumping it can supply nutrients and minerals a little easier to the muscles that are looking for it. Not saying this is the best way, but this is what works best for me. So just experiment and see what you personally like. In the end, it probably wont make a huge difference anyways.

[nptifitness]

Of course. You can run. It is very helpful to increase your breathing process. It is very useful for doing exercise long time.

[DYTrainer]

Of course. You can run. It is very helpful to increase your breathing process. It is very useful for doing exercise long time.

lol @ reading comprehension

[chazzy1864]

Either.

When I do cardio, I prefer to do it after I lift. I have zero motivation to set aside for cardio as its own entity (either separate sessions in the same day or on its own separate day). But I can muster the energy for it after a lift session since I'm already out and about and in the mood for exercise.

Cliffs:
Personal preference

[delro]

post workout, your glycogen stores will already be depleted and the cardio will be more effective and you'll actually have rest days like youre supposed to

IF your glycogen stores are depleated then how are you able to run?

[Avaric3]

IF your glycogen stores are depleated then how are you able to run?

your body does have other sources of fuel

[chazzy1864]

your body does have other sources of fuel

^ This.


But the chances that your glycogen stores will be depleted are very, very minimal.

[SoulSway]

Personally I have a routine in which I go on a short run on the mornings which I have training. Keep in mind this is around 8 hours before my training session, I have never really felt that it holds me back or anything, idk.

[sly_106]

IF your glycogen stores are depleated then how are you able to run?

depleted doesnt mean they're completely gone... your stores are lower because you've used a bunch of the glycogen stored in the muscle during your workout. there will still be some in the muscle and your liver will still have a large quantity.