What Time?
Ever wonder exactly what time of day you should exercise for most effective results? There are several things to consider. Studies show that you are strongest in the afternoon, and that for males, testosterone levels are highest in the early morning.
Real world experience proves the most consistant exercisers workout in the morning before going to work. It is easier to miss an afternoon/evening workout if something unexpected arises or your energy level is low.
What it comes down to is this: experiment. Some clients dislike morning workouts and others love them, but they all have done both to find out what works for them!
How Often Should You Work Out?
How often you should work out depends on your fitness level and goals. We will give you a some good idea.
General Fitness
- Cardio: 3-5 days per week for 20-30 minutes.
- Weight Training: 2-3 days per week for 20-30 minutes.
Get Lean
- Cardio: 4-6 days per week for 20-60 minutes alternating between high and low intensity.
- Weight Training: 3 days per week for 20-30 minutes.
Strength Training
- Cardio: 3-5 days per week for 20-30 minutes.
- Weight Training: 3-4 days per week for 30-40 minutes.
Add Muscle Mass
- Cardio: 3-5 days per week for 20-30 minutes depending on bodytype, age, etc.
- Weight Training: 3-5 days per week for 40-60 minutes.
Again, this gives you a good idea of how often you should be working out. Compare it to your current exercise program and make changes to it accordingly.
Keep in mind that if you perform the same exercises day in and day out your body will figure out what's going on and adapt to your routine. This means no progress for you. Keep the body guessing by switching exercises on a regular basis regardless if you are doing 1 or 4 exercises per muscle group.