Working out: 4 or 5 times a week?

[drugfukkdrockstar]

Hi all - i am really sorry if this has already been covered, i did a search and couldn't find anything (surprisingly)

I train 4 times a week and it's going really well and seems to be just the right amount for the week. I have a combination routine of intense cardio training, and weight training as i am training for cardio fitness as well as strength training.

Is doing this 4 times a week really good enough? or should i try to make it 5 times? Would i necessarily get better and quicker results by doing that 5th day? Or will i benefit more from doing 4 days as i am giving myself that extra day of rest....

Any input would be appreciated

 

[Rickyo]

Rest periods between cardio training are very dependant upon the individual, but the average person can train regularly (perhaps every day) without problems. If you are pushing yourself a great deal, and training for a very long time, then every day might be too much, plus you will be giving your joints a bit of punishment. However, your schedule for CV should be agreed between yourself and your trainer.

Weight lifting, on the otherhand, needs a different approach. Muscles that have been severely worked take a good few days to properly recover, and it during this recovery stage that they grow (from the rebuilding process). If they are denied sufficent rest, then this benefit is significantly reduced. For this reason, bodybuilders work specific muscle groups at a time, so that they are able to work other muscle groups whilst those ones rest.

You should aim to rest muscle groups for a minimum of 5 days ideally, although longer may be preferable. You will find lots of information on the internet suggestion good rotations and schedules for muscle workouts. If you are looking to increase muscle mass and strength from your weight training, you are advised to not repeat work outs on the same muscles within a few days of each other, and certainly not every day.