Experts share what actually happens in your body when you attempt a fasted cardio session without eating anything first.

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Working out on an empty stomach isnt always intentional.

Experts in This Article

New York City-based dietitian

What is fasted cardio?

woman sweating in the gym

New York City-based dietitian

And how long do it’s crucial that you have forgone food?

However, the best results typically come from working out after a 12-hour fast.

Most commonly: On an empty stomach first thing in the morning.

Woman walking on a treadmill at the gym.

Having some caffeine can help to give you an energy boost to power through your workout, he says.

First off: Is fasted cardio safe?

As long as youre in sound health, you should be perfectly fine giving fasted cardio a try.

Full body female athlete in sportswear using rowing machine during fitness workout in gym.

However, if you have a pre-existing medical condition, Gardner suggests talking to a healthcare professional.

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Once your glycogen stores are tapped out, the body turns to fat stores for fuel, he says.

You burn more fat.

Healthy female training in the gym, performing a hip thrust.

It could increase your stamina

Fasted cardio may also support your endurance goals.

Not everyone can happily work out on an empty stomach.

Which could undermine any gains you might have otherwise made.

A young black woman doing post-run stretches in the park on the road amidst green grass and trees.

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