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Why Workouts Feel Harder When You Combine Strength Cardio
Discover why your workouts feel harder when you combine strength training and cardio, and learn tips to maximize results, boost endurance, and recover smarter.
By
December 10, 2025
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Have you ever lifted weights and then tried to run, bike or row and thought, “Whoa, this is way harder than usual!”? You’re not imagining it — your body is working extra hard. When you lift weights, your muscles get tired. If you try to run, bike or row right after, your legs and core feel heavy, and it’s much harder to move. On top of that, lifting uses one type of energy, while cardio uses another. Doing both back-to-back forces your body to adapt quickly, which is why it feels tougher than doing either activity alone.
Your nervous system and energy stores also play a role. Lifting heavy weights taxes your nervous system and uses glycogen stored in your muscles, leaving less energy for cardio. The result? The same run, bike or row feels more challenging, pushing your heart, lungs, and muscles harder than usual. This combined stress forces your body to adapt faster, improving strength, endurance, and overall fitness more rapidly than focusing on just one type of training at a time.
The good news? You don’t have to go all-out on both parts of the workout. If lifting and running back-to-back feels too hard, just make one part easier. Eat and drink well, get enough sleep, and rest your body so it can recover. After your workout, eat some protein and carbs to give your muscles energy and help them heal. Stretch, roll out with a foam roller, and do some easy movements to keep your muscles loose and ready for the next workout.
Combining strength and cardio is harder because your body is working in two ways at once, but that’s also what makes it so effective. With smart sequencing, proper intensity, and adequate rest, you can challenge yourself, accelerate your fitness gains, and get stronger, faster — without burning out.
Ready to see how strength and cardio together can transform your fitness?
Start your journey today with CrossFit Tucker. Whether you’re new or coming back, our coaches will guide you through workouts that build strength, stamina, and confidence — all at your pace.
