How Often Should I Exercise?

The recommended minimum for physical activity and exercise is 30 minutes 3 times a week.

Keep in mind this is the absolute minimum recommended to retain some form of health to battle against chronic diseases like obesity and diabetes.  If you want to see results in weight loss or muscle tone it’s going to take more than that.

For the best results, a recommended 4-6 days a week ranging anywhere from 20 minutes to an hour and a half.  The duration of the workout should depend on they type of exercise and the desired results.  A mixture of cardio, weight/resistance and flexibility training is recommended for a well rounded routine.

If you are using focused area weight or resistance training, give yourself 48-72 hours before working the same body part again.  This is to ensure muscle recovery and avoid muscle fatigue.  It is also recommended that you take at least 1 day off a week from any exercise unless you want to do some form of stretching or myofascial release (foam rolling) on those days.

Lastly, keep in mind the more you put into something the more you will get out of it.  If you’re sitting around the gym for several minutes in between sets, you won’t get desired results.  With more intensity comes better results.  Reminder: Form is everything so don’t neglect form during intense training.

Only you can choose to get in better shape.  Choose wisely.