Cardio and Leg Size

[SuperLift]

I've always thought (and maybe I'm wrong) that cardio can make ur legs smaller. Is this true? I just picture a runner and see how skinny their legs are. If this is the case, what's the best option for cardio to save as much muscle as possible? Thanks

[BigBuck6]

It will if you have fat on them to burn off. Have you ever seen a good sprinter's legs? They can been pretty good size relative to their body. Here's the thing, marathon runners train slow twitch fibers that are less capable of growth. Sprinters however train fast twitch fibers which seem to grow larger and therefore have bigger legs. If you run too much your legs will be smaller because eventually you will lose up all your glycogen and fat stores and your body will rely on muscle for fuel. Your body does not want to do this naturally because it is inefficient and not a normal function.


To sum all that up, follow ACSM recommendations for cardio and you'll be fine. I personally switch from 4x15 minutes 3mph 15 degree incline walking per week to 3x15 minutes 15 degree incline HIIT per week and haven't lost any muscle but am getting cut up.

[SuperLift]

Yah, Ive been using the treadmill lately at a slow pace but on an incline usually pwo. Think I may switch it up a bit

[dec11]

no unless you are doing distance endurance work.
you'll be using diff muscle fibres and unless your diet is seriousily bad you wont be affected

[SuperLift]

Cool thanks man. I love doing the starmaster to. That things prolly my favorite. Ill get on that thing for a slow pace pwo for 20 mins or so. It's a killer

[dec11]

Cool thanks man. I love doing the starmaster to. That things prolly my favorite. Ill get on that thing for a slow pace pwo for 20 mins or so. It's a killer

i do it myself and im a plifter, wont affect you at all

[SuperLift]

There really isn't much fat on my legs but I was just worried about loosing what little
Muscle on my legs already. Lol

[SuperLift]

I've read a few studies that said when trained males did moderate paced cardio on the bike post leg workout that they increased thigh circumference vs a control group, I'll see if I can dig up the study.

Cool bro I'd b interested in reading that one for sure