Eating after HIIT

[seeDerekNow]

I've read in several different places on the web that you should wait about an hour after a HIIT cardio session before eating. I've also noticed that John doesnt eat until an hour after his workouts.

The opposite side of the argument says that you should take in some carbs after your workout. What do you guys think?

[NME]

I treat HIIT cardio like a weightlifting workout. Thus, I have a protein shake immediately following the session.

I do, however, wait anywhere from 30-60 minutes after mid-range cardio to eat anything.

[John Stone]

Originally Posted by seeDerekNow

I've read in several different places on the web that you should wait about an hour after a HIIT cardio session before eating. I've also noticed that John doesnt eat until an hour after his workouts.

The opposite side of the argument says that you should take in some carbs after your workout. What do you guys think?

Actually I have a protein shake immediately post-workout on cardio days, then I shower and immediately have a big breakfast. On weight training days I have a protein shake and a banana immediately post-workout, followed by a shower and a big breakfast.

The reason the times on my spreadsheet seem more far apart in the morning is because I almost always wind up starting my workout late for one reason or another (work calling, network issues to deal with, updating this page... ) I should probably clarify this on my main web site. Sorry for any confusion!

[Jingo]

like with most things i think this is another that depends on your goals.

I don't eat after cardio becuase i'm purely going for fat loss atm, the problem with this is your body is in need and as well as fat, will take from your muscles.

People who are mainly bulking or maintaining seem to generally put not lossing muscle mass as priority 1, so it's important for them they avoid that at any cost.

So in short, don't eat after cardio for further fat loss at the cost of some muscle loss, eat shortly after to conserve your muscles and encourage growth but sacrifice the post work out fat burning.