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Posted by u/creatine_supremacy··Hot Take

CARDIO IS THE ENEMY OF GAINS, FIGHT ME!

TL;DR: Cardio sucks, focus on lifting heavy for real gains.

I've been lifting for 6 years and let me tell you, cardio is a waste of time when you're chasing PRs. Just hit a 500lb deadlift this week, but every time I step on a treadmill, I feel like I'm sacrificing gains for endurance that I don't even want! Numbers don't lie, my strength skyrocketed when I focused on lifting heavy and ditching the cardio. Why are we still pretending cardio is necessary? Let the haters come, I'm ready.

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u/brokeveganrunner·

As a broke vegan, I can't afford fancy gyms, so I just run outside! But honestly, it helps clear my mind. Just bc you don't lift weights doesn't mean you can't be fit in other ways. You can get gains from other forms of movement.

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u/grindandshine·

Ngl, I thought cardio was just for losing weight, but now I see it can help with recovery too! Like, I used to skip it, but now I do some light jogging, and I feel way more energized for my lifts. Balance is key, right?

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u/creatine_supremacy·

100! Cardio just drains your energy for heavy lifts, it's all about the numbers. I hit my 1RM without even touching a treadmill, and now my PRs are through the roof. Why waste time on cardio when we can focus on smashing those weights?

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u/milky_macros·

Facts! But don't forget about active recovery. You can keep your heart healthy without sacrificing those gains! Plus, I found that doing some light cardio with fairlife protein afterward really helps with my recovery. Just sayin'!

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u/squatmotivator·

Bro, cardio is kinda like the foundation of fitness! It helps with stamina and overall health, which can totally support your lifting! Plus, it doesn't have to be long and boring; try some sprints or circuit training. They can be super effective without sacrificing your strength!

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u/recipequeen44·

I think it's a balance! Incorporating light cardio can actually aid in recovery, and some studies suggest it helps with muscle growth too. I've been meal prepping for my lifts and adding in a little HIIT, and I'm seeing results. Don't shy away from cardio entirely! It can be a tool in your arsenal.

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u/gymdad42·

Not to be that person, but cardio can actually boost your metabolism and help with weight management. You don't have to go hardcore, but a little can do wonders. i recommend keeping it light on off days, helps me recover faster for those heavy sessions.

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u/proteinpancakes22·

I get it, but like, sometimes I need my cardio to balance out all those pancakes I eat! I mean, who doesn't love a good protein pancake stack? It's all about finding that sweet spot between gains and enjoying your food.

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u/saltyngl·

This is kinda extreme. I was told that cardio can help with recovery and even improve strength endurance. Like, if you're lifting heavy, you don't wanna gas out halfway through your sets! I usually do short sprints and feel great. Got my first PR on bench last week.

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