How many days per week is strength training recommended for adults?

Strength training is generally recommended for adults at least two days per week to ensure the development and maintenance of muscle strength, endurance, and overall health. This frequency allows for adequate recovery between sessions, promotes muscle adaptation, and helps to prevent injuries. Engaging in strength training twice a week provides a balanced approach that can effectively target all major muscle groups, which is essential for functional fitness and metabolic health.

Training any less frequently, such as once a week, may not provide the necessary stimulus for significant strength gains or to maintain muscle mass effectively, particularly as adults age. On the other hand, training five days a week, while beneficial for advanced athletes or specific training outcomes, may not be manageable or necessary for the average adult, potentially leading to overtraining and fatigue if not properly structured. Hence, two days per week strikes a balanced approach that is widely recommended by health organizations and fitness guidelines.