Weights: how many times a week

mittencat77
mittencat77 Posts: 137 Member
in Fitness and Exercise
I used to be in good shape 5 years ago prior to a serious injury that had me unable to move for a year and in pain for 3. A couple of years ago I recovered and am really into a 30 min HITT kickboxing circuit that I like to do 5 times a week but think my body is the type that needs weightlifting to really start burning/lose weight. I used to happily go 3-5 times a week, but now I have found kb I find the gym so boring. I want to do as much kb as I can but need to add weight days. What would be the minimum amount of weightlifting workouts I could do each week and have a benifit? Could I get away with 2? Or do I need more? Would 3 days be minimum? Maybe I could learn to love the gym again, but right now it is hard to imagine! Thanks!!!!

Replies

  • TonyAdams1969
    TonyAdams1969 Posts: 2 Member
    I wish there was a simple answer, but i don't think there is! I really think it's up to the individual.

    Personally, I get good results with 2-3 weight sessions @ 30 mins each.
    I'm guessing you've got a pretty high metabolism with the HIIT work, so I'd try 2 days/week with weights (try it for say 1 month) just to give your system a kick start. :)
  • mittencat77
    mittencat77 Posts: 137 Member
    Thanks Tony. I think you are right. I need a kickstart. I am dreading the day after that first day back in the gym. But I guess I better just do it!
  • mittencat77
    mittencat77 Posts: 137 Member
    Thanks Ann
  • Justin_7272
    Justin_7272 Posts: 341 Member
    Most programs incorporate at least 3 days a week; often M, W, F, with T, Th, Sat & Sunday rest days. Strong Curves seems to be popular among many of the women here. Follow Ann's link for further info. Good luck!
  • cwolfman13
    cwolfman13 Posts: 41,865 Member
    For most people, a full body 3x per week program is plenty. I define most as people not looking to be bodybuilders, power lifters, or those who otherwise have advanced aesthetic goals. I personally do two days per week as I think resistance training is important and that's what is recommended as a minimum by most health bodies...but overall, I'd rather be doing other things so I don't spend a ton of time in the gym.
  • Phirrgus
    Phirrgus Posts: 1,894 Member
    AnnPT77 wrote: »
    Usually the best benefit from strength traning, including weight workouts, comes from following a well-designed formal program, vs. making up our own routine. There are a number of programs here, with varying schedules:

    http://community.myfitnesspal.com/en/discussion/10332083/which-lifting-program-is-the-best-for-you

    No need to look any further. The only caveat I'll add is that if a particular program isn't meeting your needs, simply try another. Most decent programs will have days per week/rests/increases etc built in. No guess work.

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