Cardio gets all the attention when women want to “get in shape.” But too much cardio, especially in a stressed-out or underfed body, can actually work against you. Here’s why — and what to do instead.
Steady-state cardio increases cortisol (your stress hormone). While cortisol is helpful in short bursts, chronically elevated levels can:
- Lead to muscle breakdown (catabolism)
- Suppress thyroid function
- Disrupt blood sugar regulation
- Trigger fat storage — especially in the abdominal area
On top of that, excessive cardio paired with calorie restriction can signal the body to enter a “preservation mode,” slowing your metabolism to conserve energy.
What works better?
→ Combining HIIT (High Intensity Interval Training) and Strength Training preserves lean muscle while stimulating fat loss, without the hormone crash.
Real-Life Application:
→ Swap 5 days of cardio for 2 days HIIT + 3 days strength
→ Prioritize post-workout refueling to reduce cortisol
→ Rest is not optional — it’s where adaptation happens
Closing Thought:
You’re not lazy if you’re tired. Your body may be overtrained, under-recovered, and desperate for a new approach — one built on strength, not burnout.
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