Training after an All-Night Fast Does Not Promote Weight Loss
Training after an All-Night Fast Does Not Promote Weight Loss
The body uses mainly carbohydrates as fuel at exercise intensities above 65 percent of maximum effort. However, it will use whatever fuels are available. It seems reasonable that fat use will increase during exercise when the body has minimal carbohydrate stores, such as after an all-night fast. Consequently, many bodybuilders and people trying to lose body fat will train the first thing in the morning without eating breakfast.
Strength coach Brad Schoenfeld, after evaluating the evidence for this practice, concluded that training in a carbohydrate-depleted state is ineffective for weight loss. Carbohydrate depletion decreases exercise capacity and the desire to train. Also, this type of training results in greater use of protein as fuel, which could lead to a decrease in muscle mass.
Regularity is the best strategy for successful fat loss. Try to do some exercise on most days of the week and decrease caloric intake. (Strength and Conditioning Journal, 33(1): 23-25, 2011)
