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July 31, 2023
When it comes to working out, one of the most common questions people ask is, "How often should I be working out?" The answer to this question depends on a variety of factors, including your fitness goals, your current level of fitness, and your schedule.
Before you can determine how often you should be working out, it's important to consider a few key factors.
What are your fitness goals? Are you looking to lose weight, build muscle, or improve your overall health and fitness? The type of workout routine you should follow will depend on your goals.
For example, if you're looking to lose weight, you'll want to focus on cardio exercises, such as running or biking, that get your heart rate up and burn calories. On the other hand, if you're looking to build muscle, you'll want to focus on strength training exercises, such as weightlifting or bodyweight exercises like push-ups and squats.
Your current level of fitness is another important factor to consider. If you're just starting out, you'll want to take it slow and gradually work your way up to more intense workouts. On the other hand, if you're already in good shape, you can likely handle more frequent and intense workouts.
Finally, your schedule is another important factor to consider. How much time do you have to devote to working out each day or each week? Can you fit in multiple workouts per week, or do you need to stick to shorter, more intense workouts?
So, how often should you be working out? The American Heart Association recommends that adults get at least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity aerobic exercise or 75 minutes of vigorous-intensity aerobic exercise per week. This breaks down to about 30 minutes per day, five days per week.
In addition to aerobic exercise, the American Heart Association also recommends doing strength training exercises at least two days per week.
Of course, this is just a general guideline, and the amount of exercise you need will depend on your individual goals, fitness level, and schedule. If you're just starting out, it's a good idea to start with shorter, less intense workouts and gradually work your way up to more frequent and intense workouts.
Now that you have a better idea of how often you should be working out, it's time to create a workout plan that works for you. Here are a few tips to keep in mind:
Make sure your fitness goals are realistic and achievable. If you set goals that are too ambitious, you may become discouraged and give up.
To prevent boredom and keep your workouts interesting, try mixing up your routine. Alternate between cardio and strength training exercises, and try new activities, like hiking or swimming.
Consistency is key when it comes to working out. Try to stick to a regular workout schedule, and don't let a busy schedule or other commitments get in the way of your fitness goals.
Finally, it's important to listen to your body. If you're feeling tired or run down, take a break from your workouts. And if you're experiencing pain or discomfort, stop your workout and seek medical attention if necessary.
In summary, how often you should be working out depends on your individual goals, fitness level, and schedule. While the American Heart Association recommends getting at least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity aerobic exercise per week, it's important to create a workout plan that works for you and your lifestyle. By setting realistic goals, mixing up your workouts, staying consistent, and listening to your body, you can create a workout routine that helps you achieve your fitness goals.