30 Seconds Summary
Is Cardio Making you Fat?

  • Cardio does not inherently cause fat gain; it is a caloric surplus that leads to storing fat.
  • Engaging in cardio can actually result in fat loss, as shown in studies where participants lost body fat after consistent aerobic exercise.
  • Cardio could potentially lead to fat gain if it results in excessive eating that creates a caloric surplus, or if it leads to decreased non-exercise activity.
  • Elite athletes like long-distance runners who perform substantial amounts of cardio are often lean, suggesting cardio can effectively combat fat gain when managed properly.
  • Becoming more efficient in cardio does not negate its benefits; increased fitness levels can allow for more intense sessions that burn even more calories.
  • While there's a concern that cardio might lead to loss of lean mass, this typically occurs alongside fat loss and doesn't imply that cardio directly leads to gaining fat.

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