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Weightlifting on an empty stomach?

suv_hater
suv_hater Posts: 374 Member
edited January 10 in Fitness and Exercise
I prefer doing cardio on an empty stomach and it works for me.

But what about lifting weights? Would I benefit more from lifting after nourising myself? I am not worried about energy levels because I can get the lifting done, but rather on my physique. I am skinny with low body fat but I am trying to build muscle.

With that in mind, eat or don't eat if my goal is to get ripped?

In the past I used to lift on an empty stomach and then do cardio immediately after. Now I'm just doing cardio in the morning and then lifting later in the day. I hope this works out better.

Replies

  • wellbert
    wellbert Posts: 3,924 Member
    That's one of the key parts of the leangains program.

    I feel like I lift best with caffeine + empty stomach + weights.
  • ptjolsen
    ptjolsen Posts: 365 Member
    I prefer "somewhat" empty, just so that I get the full effects of my pre-workout
  • DavPul
    DavPul Posts: 61,406 Member
    Generally makes no difference. Normally I'm fasted because it's really AM when i work out. If I'm doing an especially long or fats session I'll have some chocolate milk or honey before i leave the house. Eat or not eat is up to you
  • melbatoast917
    melbatoast917 Posts: 370 Member
    So I can drink a protein shake and have some oatmeal and coffee and still burn fat efficiently? I tend to eat a LOT of my calories before noon and it seems to work better for me if I don't go hungry/woozy.
  • DontStopB_Leakin
    DontStopB_Leakin Posts: 3,863 Member
    Generally makes no difference. Normally I'm fasted because it's really AM when i work out. If I'm doing an especially long or fats session I'll have some chocolate milk or honey before i leave the house. Eat or not eat is up to you
    ^This. I'm used to lift fasted, but I've *personally* noticed a boost in my lifts if I eat a small snack, usually with a good deal of protein.

    Again, though, it's simply a matter of personal preference.
  • Cr01502
    Cr01502 Posts: 3,614 Member
    Concentrate more on your total daily intake of macronutrients.

    If you perform better and are able to workout harder with some food in your stomach go for it.

    If it doesn't make a difference or it hinders your workout then don't.

    I personally like to eat about a half hour before hand.
  • I have a cup of coffee. Starvation mode I have read ups test levels and HGH. I don't know how true and I can't back it up with documentation. You may do the research since it concerns you. I do what my body tells me feels good and thats early cardio on empty.I eat after my breakfast and lunch are only 2 hours a part 10 and noon. Plus 2 protien shakes. I wont eat again until 9 pm. Midday weight training and my wrestling BJJ and kickboxing in the evening.
  • wellbert
    wellbert Posts: 3,924 Member
    I have a cup of coffee. Starvation mode I have read ups test levels and HGH. I don't know how true and I can't back it up with documentation

    Well considering that this theory is based on 'starvation mode...'
This discussion has been closed.