Another cardio question, but this one's different.

[SteelWeaver]

Just started my cutting diet, and figure it's time to increase the cardio. I've brought it down to just 2, 45 min sessions per week, was thinking of doubling then tripling that.

HOWEVER - the WAY I do cardio is: I ride my bike to work - about a 15 km ride one way, takes exactly 45 minutes, whether I ride fast or not, thanks to the traffic lights. I get my heart rate decently up - can talk, but not sing.

The problem is, if I ride TO work in the morning, I have to ride HOME that evening, which would be just before weight training on a couple of the days. Will this seriously compromise my training? I know I can't really lift as heavily on those days, but if the intensity is there ... (I usually have a small snack between end of bike ride and starting weights). And don't ride on leg days.

My mid-afternoon meal falls 30-60 mins before my ride home - is this a problem?

Of course there are other cardio options, but this one is so time-efficient, and so refreshing in the morning!

Are two sessions per day twice or 3x per week (i.e. 4-6 sessions) as effective as the usual 30 - 60 mins 5 or 6 times a week?

Is stopping for a couple of traffic lights and thus briefly lowering HR a problem?

If I do intervals for the first 20 mins of the ride, then keep HR moderate for the rest, what would that do?

Hope someone has some ideas.

 

[diamonddiceclay]

cardio before lifting is a bad idea unless it is unavoidable

 

[SteelWeaver]

bump

 

[Pink Space Biscuit]

Well if you are riding with intesity sure it could be too much. But I don't consider a leisurely walk or bike ride as cardio, I consider that as part of life. I always go for walks at the lake, rollerblading, walks on the trails, bike rides, etc. Don't let getting fit hamper your fit active lifestyle.

 

[KBgrl]

hellllloooooo baby!! what about riding to and from work on non lifting days..... u can do this 2-3 times a week. riding 45 min before lifting is rough.

since i do cardio on my non lifting days i could swing this one but i dont know what ur split is.

i would suggest getting a heartrate monitor..... u can wear it while u bike to make sure ur HR is where u want it.... if its not...u may just have to ride right the through the traffic lights ...