AM cardio workouts Archives

Boost Workout Efficiency with Cardio Exercises Between Sets

by Rachel Scruggs | Oct 22, 2025 | exercise, Exercises, Exercises 101, Home, LA Fitness, Workouts

Incorporating cardio exercises between sets, also known as ‘cardio-acceleration’, is a revolutionary way to maximize your workout efficiency. This technique involves performing short bursts of cardio exercises, usually lasting 30-60 seconds, in between your strength training sets. Not only does this method help in burning fat, but it also keeps the heart rate elevated, leading to a more intense and productive workout session.

Why Include Cardio Between Your Exercises?

Accelerates Fat Loss: By combining cardio with weightlifting, you can accelerate fat loss without adding extra time to your workout routine.
Reduces DOMS: Engaging in cardio between sets can reduce Delayed Onset Muscle Soreness (DOMS), improving your recovery time.
Enhances Recovery: Cardioacceleration has been suggested to enhance recovery and may even contribute to muscle growth.

Effective Cardio Exercises to Include Between Sets

Here are some effective cardio exercises that you can easily incorporate between your strength training sets:

High Knees: A simple yet effective exercise to get your heart rate up.

Mountain Climbers: Target your core and shoulders while boosting your cardio.

Burpees: The king of cardio moves, burpees will challenge your entire body.

Jumping Jacks: A classic cardio exercise that works your whole body.

LA Fitness Workout Videos for Inspiration

Maximize Your Gym Time

By including cardio exercises between your sets you can make the most out of your gym time. By following the guidance provided in LA Fitness workout videos, you can create a dynamic and efficient workout routine that caters to both strength and cardiovascular fitness. Remember, always consult with a fitness professional before starting any new exercise regimen, especially if you’re new to cardio-acceleration.

Note: This blog post is a general guide and should not replace professional advice. Always consult with a fitness professional or personal trainer at LA Fitness for personalized guidance and support.

Should You Try Fasting Before Your Next Morning Swim?

by DebbieJ MS RDN | May 7, 2019 | All, Ask Our Dietitian, Home, Nutrition

Question:

I have been swimming for 30 minutes, 4 days a week, at 6AM. Is it best to not eat a sensible breakfast until after I swim? My son is a varsity state swimmer and says not to eat until mid or late morning so that my fat is burned as fuel first.

– Lorin and Diana S.

Answer:

Tristen Alleman, one of our Pro Results® Personal Training Directors, shared that it’s best to do your morning aerobic work while fasted in order to burn more fat. Theoretically, since the body has been using glycogen overnight (fasted) while insulin levels drop, it shifts toward greater fat utilization in subsequent exercise. Most research supports this notion, though it may not be the case during energy restriction. There is also a lack of evidence showing resultant changes in body composition.

I’d advise eating your breakfast just after your morning workout and not waiting until mid-morning, both for your muscle recovery as well as for convenience – it’s easier to eat your sensible meal before getting to early work.

Resources:

Beneficial metabolic adaptations due to endurance exercise training in the fasted state. K Van Proeyen , et al. Journal of Applied Physiology. 2011;110(1):236–245.
Body composition changes associated with fasted versus non-fasted aerobic exercise. BJ Schoenfeld, et al. Journal of the International Society of Sports Nutrition. 2014; 11:54.
Training in the fasted state improves glucose tolerance during fat-rich diet. K Van Proeyen K, et al. The Journal of Physiology. 2010; 588(Pt 21): 4289–4302.

– Debbie J., MS, RD

This article should not replace any exercise program or restrictions, any dietary supplements or restrictions, or any other medical recommendations from your primary care physician. Before starting any exercise program or diet, make sure it is approved by your doctor.

Some questions have been edited for length and/or clarity.

Ask our Dietitian

Have a nutrition question? Our registered dietitian is ready to help!

Email nutrition@lafitness.com or submit your question below and it may be featured in an upcoming article!

Boost Workout Efficiency with Cardio Exercises Between Sets

Why Include Cardio Between Your Exercises?

Effective Cardio Exercises to Include Between Sets

LA Fitness Workout Videos for Inspiration

Maximize Your Gym Time

Should You Try Fasting Before Your Next Morning Swim?

Question:

Answer:

Ask our Dietitian

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Should You Try Fasting Before Your Next Morning Swim?