How Often Should I Exercise?

I'm asked this question often, so I thought I'd begin blogging on this topic.

The answer depends on several things. In order to improve, an individual should set up goals to establish how much time and effort they are willing to give to this endeavor. Generally, cardio exercise should be incorporated three to four days a week for at least 30 or more minutes per day to help improve a person’s endurance. However, if significant weight loss is the goal, four to five days per week would be more effective in increasing the amount of daily calories burned.

Strength training can be done effectively as little as twice per week if the routine is comprehensive and intense enough. A person looking to isolate muscle groups and build his or her strength may find it necessary to exercise three to five times per week. Availability is often a factor for many people.

Any reasonable schedule should be effective when there is a clear purpose for the chosen exercises.  An effective trainer needs to be able to recognize each client’s needs, capabilities, limitations and preferences in order to design a total program that will adequately meet the needs of the individual.