is there actually a big difference when it comes to fat loss or overall health between doing cardio first thing in the morning fasted versus after lifting? from what I’ve seen, most studies say it pretty much evens out over time as long as you’re sticking to steady state in that lower fat-burning zone, regardless of whether you’re fasted or not.
obviously those studies aren’t based on guys running AAS, so I’m curious if anyone here has a solid reason to prioritize fasted cardio over post workout. right now I just do about 30 minutes after training because it fits my schedule way better. I’d rather not show up to work already sweating or have to squeeze in a second shower in the morning since I already shower at night - plus I’d be cutting into my sleep to make fasted cardio happen.
man i am right there with you on the sleep thing. honestly unless you are like three weeks out from a bodybuilding show and trying to strip off that last tiny bit of stubborn fat on your lower back fasted cardio is a total waste of time for guys like us. when you are running gear your metabolism is already cranked up so high that the tiny difference in fat oxidation between fasted and fed is basically just a rounding error by the end of the week.
i’ve done both and the only thing that mattered was which one i could actually stick to without hating life. post workout is way easier for most people and you’re already warm so it just flows better.
nah you’ve basically got it right. fasted vs fed cardio is way more about convenience than actual fat loss difference. over time it evens out if calories and total activity are the same.
the only real “edge” fasted cardio has for some people is appetite control or just getting it done before life gets in the way, but performance wise and fat loss wise it evens out if total work is the same. on AAS too it doesn’t magically change the outcome, it’s still just calories in vs out + adherence.
i’ve always just done it whenever it fits my schedule too, usually post workout like you, cause the “perfect fasted morning cardio routine” sounds nice until you’re sacrificing sleep and turning it into a whole lifestyle production for basically the same end result.
a lot of fasted cardio talk feels like prep culture bleeding into normal life where people act like suffering automatically means superior. if your progress is moving and you’re actually sticking to it, i’d personally keep the extra sleep.
on AAS the only small difference i’ve personally noticed is fasted cardio can feel a bit easier for some because you’re lighter and not dealing with a full stomach, but it can also feel more draining if sleep or recovery isn’t great. post lift cardio is usually just more consistent because you’re already in the gym and it’s easier to stick to long term
i’ve tried both and honestly didn’t notice anything magical with fasted cardio. felt a bit lighter doing it in the morning but performance was kinda meh and like you said it messes with sleep and routine way more than it’s worth. post workout cardio just fits life better for me and fat loss didn’t change at all long term
