Is a 5-Day Workout Routine Good?

Medically Reviewed on 9/30/2021
is a 5-day workout routine good
A 5-day workout routine is a good way to improve your health. Splitting your workouts over the week helps you target different muscle groups

A 5-day workout routine is a good way to improve your health and stay active. The American Heart Association recommends at least:

  • 150 minutes per week of moderate-intensity aerobic activity, 
  • 75 minutes per week of vigorous aerobic activity, or 
  • a combination of both. 

Splitting your workouts over the week helps you target different muscle groups, gives you off-days to recover, and lowers the risk of exercise-related injuries.

What should I include in my 5-day workout routine?

Planning for your workouts in advance can help you stick to them more consistently. Your five-day workout routine must be such that you:

  • Include various types of exercise such as strength training, cardio, and stretching workouts
  • Focus on different muscle groups each day of the week
  • Give yourself 1-2 days to relax and recover from fatigue
  • Do not get bored of doing the same workout every day

You don’t need much equipment or a fancy gym to keep your workouts effective. A set of weights in your room, an exercise mat, and appropriate shoes are generally enough for a good workout routine.

What is an example of a 5-day workout routine?

You may want to talk to your doctor before starting a new workout regime, especially if you have any health issues. It’s also a good idea to plan your routine with the help of a qualified trainer. 

Although individual requirements may vary, an example of a 5-day workout routine may be as follows:

  • Day 1: 20 minutes of cardio (walking, cycling, jogging, swimming) and weight training for muscles of the legs, glutes, and calves.
  • Day 2: Rest. You may do light stretching or yoga.
  • Day 3: 40 minutes of cardio and weight training targeting your shoulders, arms, and forearms.
  • Day 4: 30 minutes of cardio and weight training targeting your core.
  • Day 5: Rest. You may do light stretching or yoga.
  • Day 6: 30 minutes of cardio and weight training targeting your back and chest.
  • Day 7: 30 minutes of cardio.

This schedule will help you train different muscles in your body and ensure that you get at least 150 minutes of heart-pumping physical activity a week. The American Heart Association further adds that to maximize workout benefits, you may even aim for cardio activity of 300 minutes a week. 

If you are a beginner, it is advisable to start slow and then increase your activity as your stamina improves.

How to prevent injuries during a workout

Workout injuries may be prevented by:

  • Warming up properly before the workout
  • Wearing proper workout gear
  • Staying hydrated before, during, and after the workout
  • Not overdoing any activity beyond your physical limits
  • Following proper form during the workout
  • Cooling down for 5-10 minutes toward the end of the workout
  • Stretching (15-30 seconds for each muscle group) after the workout
  • Eating a protein-rich diet
  • Having rest days so that your body can recover properly

QUESTION

Walking can maintain your body weight and lower many health risks. True or false? See Answer

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Medically Reviewed on 9/30/2021
References
https://www.heart.org/en/healthy-living/fitness/fitness-basics/aha-recs-for-physical-activity-infographic

https://medlineplus.gov/ency/patientinstructions/000859.htm