Good morning, friends!
Lots of clients over the years have asked me how many times they should be working out every week in order to reach their goals. Although everyone is different and there are countless variables (and objectives) to consider, there are a couple of points that apply to basically everyone:
Three times per week, in my opinion, is the absolute minimum number of workouts needed per week to make and/or maintain progress and reap the many health benefits of exercise.
Working out seven days a week, without a rest day (or two), is almost always too much and often can lead to diminishing returns or even injury.
What I've noticed over the years is that not many people are pushing super hard for the seven day workout schedule - rather, most people just getting into fitness are shocked that it takes more than a couple of workouts per week to get the results they want.
So as a general message, if you're just starting out, shoot for two to three workouts per week for the first few weeks. As soon as you feel you're able, add another day. Continue this until you're hitting the gym (or whatever you do for fitness) between 4-6 days per week.
And every time you work out, make it count and sweat it out!
Somewhere in between these workouts, make sure you're saving at least one day for complete recovery and self-care - that doesn't mean you have to spend the entire day in your bed or on the couch, but keep your activities super mellow.
It's fine to have "active recovery" days also, but I always advocate one complete recovery day to let your body know you're not going to run it into the ground. Resting the proper amount can actually positively influence all kinds of things from muscle gain to fat loss. It's worth it, I promise!
Your rest days don't always have to occur at the same time each week, either... I had a friend who swore by the 4 days on / one day off / three days on / one day off system. It's up to you and what works for your body, must make sure you're getting enough exercise AND enough rest!
So guys, it's important to understand that a couple days in the gym per week just isn't gonna cut it if you want to make noticeable changes to your physique. You don't have to start out with guns blazing, but know that the reality of the situation is that consistent exercise several times per week is what it takes to create and hold onto the body you've always wanted! Add in enough rest to keep your body feeling and performing its best, and you'll be crushing it in no time!
What kind of workouts do you guys like best? How many days do you work out before taking a rest day?
Please feel free to comment, upvote, or resteem if you'd like! :)
