working out abdominal muscles?
well in order to get a “six pack” you need to gain the muscle but also burn off the belly fat that is covering it. when i work out should i run and then do the ab strengthening or do the ab workout and then run? does it make a difference?
I like to run first, then strength training. If I blast my abs, arms, or whatever, I feel all dogged-out on the run, and I don’t do my best. Conversely, after a warm down stretch post-run I can work upper body, lower back, and abs.
I think purely from a fat-burning standpoint, a weight-lifting routine before a run can but you into fat-burning mode a little quicker in your run, however, nothing burns energy like your large leg muscles during mid-to-high intensity aerobic exercise. So the advantage in that regard may be insignificant.
I think, and this is opinion but may be valid for you, that you should do whichever is comfortable for you. This will support your efforts at consistency and you will look forward to the routine. You know how it is, if it sucks too bad we want to avoid it. For me, working out before a run sucks, and I don’t look forward to it, and the avoidance habits kick in.
One thing that is fun, if you’re into running and want to do some intensity changes, you can hit a hill, then at the top pause and do 100 flutterkicks, then continue your run. Do this for 4 or 5 intervals and you will have smokin’ abs and get in a good run.
Don’t forget good nutrition! Eating unhealthy or at the wrong times can keep you from achieving your goal, no matter how hard you work!
Good Luck!