If you’re new to weight lifting, you’ll probably have a few questions. One of the most common questions is how long should you lift weights? The amount of time you should spend lifting depends on your fitness level and your goals. For instance, if you’re trying to build up muscle mass, you may want to lift heavier than you would for endurance or toning. On the other hand, if you’re just looking to maintain your overall fitness, you may prefer to lift lighter weights.
In general, you should try to work out three to five days a week. Depending on your schedule, you can either split up your workouts by muscle group or you can take a day off.
You should be sure to follow proper technique when lifting weights. This is not only helpful for beginners, but it’s important for minimizing the risk of injury. By observing and listening to your body, you’ll know when to stop. It’s also a good idea to hire a trainer or an athletic trainer to help you improve your form. They’ll make sure that you’re doing it correctly and they can teach you how to correct any mistakes you make.
Ideally, you’ll choose a weight that you’re comfortable using for 12 to 15 reps. However, you shouldn’t try to lift weights that are too heavy. Heavy weights may cause you to break form and hurt yourself. Instead, focus on lifting weights that are challenging but still within your abilities.
You should also make sure that you’re getting the right amount of rest. Your muscles need at least 24 hours to recover from an intense workout. Not only does this give them the opportunity to repair and rebuild, but it also allows your nervous system to relax. When you don’t take enough time to rest, you’ll end up with sore muscles and constant fatigue.
A good idea is to pick up a few light weights and press them against a wall or a post. This can be a great way to warm up. Make sure to do this before you start your workout.
Most experts recommend that you do strength training three times a week. For more advanced lifters, you may want to train four or five times a week. While this can be a more aggressive approach, it’s possible to lift every day if you choose to lift loads that are below 67% of your one-rep max.
You should always take a break after lifting weights, even if you’re working out for just 20 minutes. This will allow your muscles to recover from the workout and prevent overtraining. Similarly, you should do an active recovery workout once or twice a month. These workouts keep your muscles strong while they’re recovering.
As with any exercise, proper form is a critical component of your success. When lifting, you shouldn’t do anything that could hurt you or others. Keep your eyes open for signs that you’re not working out properly, like when you’re tired near the end of your workout or when you can’t complete a set with proper form.