Exercise and Health: How Many Times a Week Should You Work Out?

Exercise and health go hand in hand. Regular physical activity can help prevent a wide range of health problems, from heart disease and diabetes to obesity and depression. But how much exercise is enough to see these benefits? One of the most common questions people have about exercise is how often they should work out. The answer to this question depends on a number of factors, including your age, fitness level, and overall health.

The American College of Sports Medicine (ACSM) recommends that adults get at least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity aerobic activity or 75 minutes of vigorous-intensity aerobic activity, or a combination of both, each week. This translates to about 30 minutes of moderate-intensity activity, such as brisk walking, five days a week, or 20 minutes of vigorous-intensity activity, such as running, three days a week. In addition to aerobic activity, adults should also engage in muscle-strengthening activities at least two days a week.

It's important to note that these recommendations are the minimum amount of exercise needed to see health benefits. More exercise can provide even greater benefits. For example, research has shown that people who engage in moderate-to-vigorous physical activity for at least 150 minutes per week or more are at a 30% lower risk of all-cause mortality than those who are inactive.

It's also important to note that the benefits of exercise can be seen even if you break it up into shorter sessions throughout the day. A 10-minute walk here and there can add up to 30 minutes by the end of the day.

It's also important to have a balance of different type of exercises, like cardiovascular, strength training, stretching and flexibility.

It's also good to check with your doctor before starting a new exercise program, especially if you have any underlying health conditions.

In conclusion, the recommended frequency for exercise is at least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity aerobic activity or 75 minutes of vigorous-intensity aerobic activity, or a combination of both, each week along with muscle-strengthening activities at least two days a week. But it's important to remember that more is better when it comes to exercise and health.