Cardiovascular training can provide numerous health benefits, such as improving heart health and increasing endurance. However, some people may wonder if doing cardio will hinder their muscle gain. The answer is not a simple yes or no, as it depends on various factors such as the type, duration, and intensity of the cardio, as well as the individual’s goals and current fitness level.
Some experts suggest that moderate amounts of cardio, such as 20-30 minutes of steady-state cardio two to three times a week, can benefit muscle growth by increasing blood flow and oxygen delivery to the muscles [1]. However, excessive amounts of cardio or high-intensity interval training (HIIT) can potentially interfere with muscle gain, as they can cause the body to use energy that would otherwise go towards muscle growth and repair.