How often should most adults perform strength training?

Regular strength training is an essential component of overall fitness for most adults, as it helps to improve muscle strength, endurance, and bone health. Guidelines from health organizations, such as the American College of Sports Medicine, recommend that adults engage in strength training activities for all major muscle groups on at least two to three days per week.

This frequency allows sufficient opportunity for muscle recovery and adaptation while promoting balanced strength development across the body. Training at this recommended frequency can also help to maximize the benefits of strength training, including improvements in metabolic rate, functional fitness, and overall health.

While more frequent strength training sessions can be beneficial for some individuals, particularly advanced lifters or athletes, the recommendation of two to three times per week strikes a balance that is accessible for the general population while ensuring adequate recovery.