logo

How Many Days Per Week Should You Work Out?

by Cameron Greene August 21, 2020

How Many Days Per Week Should You Work Out?

Exercising is important, but how many days a week should you work out exactly? After all, a one hour workout is just 4% of your day. There’s no simple formula on how many days you should workout, and everyone’s body is different. Research shows that lifting weights 3 days a week is recommended, but you should at least lift weights twice per week in order to maximize muscle growth. According to Self, “if you want to work out five days per week and are working on both strength and cardiovascular fitness, try three days of strength training, two days of cardio, and two days of active rest.” Having rest and active recovery days are very important so you don’t injure yourself. Weight training is important because “the more muscle you have the higher your metabolic rate. It also strengthens joints and bones.” (Self)

 

I’ve participated in a few workout challenges during quarantine which focused on 3 or 4 days of weights with 3 or 4 days of low impact training (walking), cardio, and HIIT workouts mixed in. There was only 2 rest days. Although, I was in great shape, I was very tired some days. Although fitness challenges can help you build muscle and increase your endurance in a short period of time, I don’t recommend doing them consecutively. I did three monthly challenges in a row. However, I feel l better when I have one or two rest days a week. I typically do 3 days of HIIT weight-training workouts and 2 or 3 days of cardio and/or low impact training like walking. On low impact days, I try to walk or hike 4-8 miles. A lot of trainers and gyms will have classes that focus on arms, legs, chest, abs, etc during certain days of the week, which is great. However, I feel my best after doing a full body workout with my trainer. More and more trainers I know or personally follow on social media are shifting towards full body workouts over workouts concentrating on a particular body part. I feel like I’ve gotten stronger from full body workouts in a short period of time.

 

If you’re not used to working out, I suggest starting off slow and working out with a trainer or taking a workout class (virtual or one that takes social distancing into account). It’s important to make sure you know how to to work a machine or do an exercise properly so you don’t hurt yourself.

 

Just remember at the end of the day to listen to your body, and to create a work out schedule and routine that’s best for you!

Related Posts

Sauna Therapy 101
Sauna Therapy 101
Does sauna therapy actually work? The answer is yes! Did you know that sauna therapy helps to liberate toxins stored ...
Read More
Beauty Trends: What is CoolTone?
Beauty Trends: What is CoolTone?
There are lots of beauty trends out there right now such as Coolsculpting and Cryotherapy. But, have you heard of Coo...
Read More
Wellness Wednesday Tips
Wellness Wednesday Tips
Another Wellness Wednesday is almost in the books. How are we doing on our 2021 goals so far? Today, we are going to ...
Read More
Is Overhydration A Thing?
Is Overhydration A Thing?
I made one of my New Year's Goals to drink more water. I've been drinking about 80 or more ounces of water per day. T...
Read More
Self Care Ideas To Use In 2021
Self Care Ideas To Use In 2021
We know 2020 has been rough for everyone, and we are hopeful for a brighter 2021. Here are some self care ideas to br...
Read More
Healthy New Year's Resolutions & Goals
Healthy New Year's Resolutions & Goals
2021 is right around the corner. Some of you maybe writing down your new year's resolutions or goals. Here are some g...
Read More
10 Healthy Holiday Tips
10 Healthy Holiday Tips
Holidays are usually enjoyable. Here are 10 tips to help you have a healthier holiday season: Don’t skip meals. Ski...
Read More
An Apple a Day...
An Apple a Day...
An apple a day can keep the doctor away.... Apple season is here. If you haven't gone apple picking yet, I highly rec...
Read More
An Apple a Day...
An Apple a Day...
An apple a day can keep the doctor away.... Apple season is here. If you haven't gone apple picking yet, I highly rec...
Read More
Carb Cycling
Carb Cycling
Carb intake has been up for debate for a while now. Many diets restrict carbs or ban them completely. In order to opt...
Read More


Cameron Greene
Cameron Greene

Author



Also in Fitness & Training Tips

30 Day Kettlebell Swing Challenge
30 Day Kettlebell Swing Challenge

by Valerie Morrison April 18, 2022

Five Great Gifts for the Fitness Fanatics in Your Life
Five Great Gifts for the Fitness Fanatics in Your Life

by Valerie Morrison December 14, 2021

Change It Up!!!
Change It Up!!!

by Valerie Morrison August 09, 2021

close-icon