Fasted Cardio

What is fasted cardio?

Fasted cardio is a type of cardio workout done on an empty stomach. This means that the workout is done in the morning, before breakfast or any other meal, when your body has not received any nutrients for a prolonged period of time. The primary goal of fasted cardio is to burn fat by using body fat as the primary fuel source for energy.

How can fasted cardio help with weight loss?

When you exercise in a fasted state, your insulin levels are low and your body is more likely to use stored fat as a source of energy instead of glucose. This is because glucose is the primary source of energy when insulin levels are high, and when you exercise in a fed state, your body will first burn through the glucose in your bloodstream before turning to body fat for fuel.

Fasted cardio can also help increase your calorie deficit, which is essential for weight loss. If you burn more calories than you consume, you will lose weight. By doing fasted cardio, you can burn fat while expending the same amount of energy as you would during a fed state workout.

What are the benefits of fasted cardio?

• Burns more fat: Fasted cardio can help you burn more fat by using stored fat as the primary fuel source during exercise.
• Boosts metabolism: Fasted cardio can also help increase your metabolism for several hours after your workout, which can help you burn more calories throughout the day.
• Improves insulin sensitivity: Fasted cardio can help improve insulin sensitivity, which is important for overall health and can help prevent type 2 diabetes.

What are the potential risks of fasted cardio?

Fasted cardio can be a safe and effective way to exercise, but it is important to listen to your body and make sure you are not overdoing it. Some potential risks of fasted cardio include:

• Low blood sugar: If you have low blood sugar, fasted cardio can cause your blood sugar to drop even further, which can be dangerous. It is recommended that people with low blood sugar levels eat a small snack before their workout to prevent this from happening.
• Decreased performance: Some people may find that they have less energy during a fasted workout and may not be able to perform at their usual level. If this happens, it is okay to switch to a fed state workout.
• Muscle loss: While fasted cardio can help you burn fat, it can also lead to muscle loss if not done correctly. It is important to pair fasted cardio with a balanced diet and resistance training to preserve muscle mass.

Conclusion

Fasted cardio can be a useful tool for weight loss and improving overall health, but it is important to approach it safely and with caution. If you are new to exercise, have any health concerns, or are unsure if fasted cardio is right for you, it is recommended that you speak with a healthcare professional or certified fitness professional.