Consuming Protein Drink after strength training or Cardio?

ArshadAhamed

Hey all,
I've started to take Protein Drink (mixed in water) to help me with the fat loss goals I've set. Normally, my work out regimen follows cardio(15-20 mins)-strength training(20-30 mins)-cardio(12-15 mins). I'm confused as to where I'm supposed to consume the protein drink - immediately after the strength traning session or after the final cardio?
What's the better method?
How can I modify my workout schedule to maximise the fat-loss effects.

Wombat468

It won't make any difference when you drink it - just have it on the same day as you work out.

rankinsect

I'd personally do it at the end - not because of any muscle gain / weight loss benefits, which won't make a difference, but just because I know my digestive system will better tolerate it if I wait until the workout is over. Anything I'm drinking during a workout is going to be either noncaloric, or simple sugar only. I'll wait until after I've cooled down to take in any food requiring more of my digestive system.

Sharon_C

I drink mine about an hour after my workout simply because I work out at 5:30am and have to rush home, shower, get the kiddo to school and me to work. I don't have time to drink it before that. I've also read that the timing doesn't matter unless you're a competitive body builder and are working out 2-3 times a day.

ninerbuff

ArshadAhamed wrote: »

Hey all,
I've started to take Protein Drink (mixed in water) to help me with the fat loss goals I've set.

Drinking protein drinks don't directly help with fat loss. Fat loss happens with a calorie deficit. And if drinking a protein drink helps you to exceed that, then it's more detrimental than helpful. Don't buy into all the hype that's being passed on in gyms and magazines.

Normally, my work out regimen follows cardio(15-20 mins)-strength training(20-30 mins)-cardio(12-15 mins). I'm confused as to where I'm supposed to consume the protein drink - immediately after the strength traning session or after the final cardio?
What's the better method?

Matter of preference. Timing is inconsequential to weight loss, but dependent on how you feel after drinking it, is probably where you'll figure out what works best for you.

How can I modify my workout schedule to maximise the fat-loss effects.

Workouts are for fitness and health. Calorie deficit is for weight loss/fat loss. One thing you may consider is that if you work out before bed time and it keeps you awake, then you'll want to work out earlier to avoid that from happening.

A.C.E. Certified Personal and Group Fitness Trainer
IDEA Fitness member
Kickboxing Certified Instructor
Been in fitness for 30 years and have studied kinesiology and nutrition

alanlmarshall

It doesn't matter when or if you drink it.
If your goal is fat loss, look into high intensity interval training and lifting heavy. They are the most helpful forms of exercise for your goal.

cbelc2

Track it and make sure it fits into your goals. It's easy to get too much protein if you use a supplement and are a heavy meat eater. Protein shakes aren't necessary.