How Often Should You Train Weekly to Build Muscle Effectively? (A Complete Guide)

Are you unsure how many times a week you need to train to build muscle effectively?

Or maybe you're frustrated because, despite putting in the effort, your progress is slower than you'd like. 🤔

Building muscle requires more than just showing up at the gym. It’s about the right balance of training, rest, and nutrition.

In this free blog we will give you all the information you need to lose fat, gain muscle and more! Let's get started!

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Team GetFIT App
November 4, 2024

How Often Should You Train Weekly to Build Muscle Effectively? (A Complete Guide)

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Are you unsure how many times a week you need to train to build muscle effectively? Or maybe you're frustrated because, despite putting in the effort, your progress is slower than you'd like. 🤔 Building muscle requires more than just showing up at the gym. It’s about the right balance of training, rest, and nutrition.

In this article, we’ll explore:

  • How often you should train each week.
  • How long your workouts should last.
  • The types of exercises you should include.
  • How much rest you need to see optimal results.
    We’ll also highlight common struggles, actionable tips, and how the GetFIT App Premium Membership can make your journey easier. 💪

By the end, you’ll have a clear roadmap for your fitness goals. Let's dive in!

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How Often Should You Train to Build Muscle?

The truth is, there isn’t a one-size-fits-all answer. Factors like your fitness level, goals, and recovery ability all play a role. But here’s a general breakdown:

  • Beginner (0–6 months of training): 3–4 full-body workouts per week.
  • Intermediate (6–24 months of training): 4–5 sessions weekly, dividing workouts into upper/lower body splits or push-pull-leg routines.
  • Advanced (2+ years of consistent training): 5–6 sessions weekly, with specific muscle group splits.

👉 Key Insight: Training each muscle group at least twice per week is optimal for hypertrophy (muscle growth).

đź’ˇ Struggle: Overtraining is a common mistake. Hitting the gym every day without proper recovery can lead to burnout, fatigue, and even injury.
🔑 Solution: Prioritize quality over quantity. Use structured workout plans like those available in the GetFIT App Premium Membership, which are science-based and tailored to your fitness level and goals.

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How Long Should Your Workouts Be?

You don’t need to spend hours in the gym to see results. In fact:

  • Ideal workout length: 45–75 minutes.
  • Focus on intensity, not duration.

Each session should include:

  1. Warm-Up (5–10 minutes): Dynamic stretches to prevent injury.
  2. Main Workout (30–60 minutes): Compound and isolation exercises.
  3. Cool-Down (5–10 minutes): Stretching to aid recovery.

💡 Pro Tip: Incorporate progressive overload—gradually increasing weight, reps, or sets—to challenge your muscles and ensure continuous growth.

If you're unsure how to structure your workouts, the GetFIT App’s Premium Membership offers complete training plans with detailed exercise breakdowns and substitution options.

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What Exercises Are Best for Muscle Growth?

To maximize muscle growth, focus on:

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Compound Exercises (70% of your workout)

These work multiple muscle groups at once:

  • Bench Press
  • Squats
  • Deadlifts
  • Pull-Ups
  • Rows

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Isolation Exercises (30% of your workout)

These target specific muscles:

  • Bicep Curls
  • Tricep Extensions
  • Leg Curls
  • Lateral Raises

đź’ˇ Struggle: Performing exercises with poor form is a common issue. This can hinder progress and lead to injuries.
🔑 Solution: Use the exercise tutorials and breakdowns in the GetFIT App to perfect your form and get the most out of every rep.

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How Much Rest Do You Need?

Rest is as important as training. Without proper recovery, your muscles won’t have time to repair and grow.

  • Between Sets: Rest for 60–90 seconds for hypertrophy-focused training.
  • Between Workouts: Give each muscle group 48–72 hours of recovery.

đź’ˇ Common Mistake: Skipping rest days in favor of more workouts.
🔑 Solution: Schedule rest days or active recovery (e.g., light yoga or walking). The GetFIT App’s mobility programs are perfect for recovery while keeping you active.

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The Role of Nutrition in Muscle Building

Training without proper nutrition is like driving a car without fuel—it won’t take you far.

  • Protein Intake: Aim for 1.6–2.2 grams per kg of body weight daily.
  • Carbs and Fats: Balance your intake to support energy and hormone function.
  • Hydration: Drink at least 2–3 liters of water daily.

đź’ˇ Struggle: Many people struggle to eat enough protein or plan balanced meals.
🔑 Solution: The GetFIT App Premium Membership offers hundreds of quick, high-protein recipes, meal plans, and shopping lists to simplify your diet.

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Overcoming Common Struggles

Building muscle can be challenging, and you might face:

  • Lack of progress despite consistent effort.
  • Feeling overwhelmed with conflicting information online.
  • Struggling to stay consistent.

đź’ˇ Actionable Tips:

  1. Follow a proven training program (e.g., GetFIT App’s workout plans).
  2. Track your progress weekly (weight, reps, or visual changes).
  3. Don’t cut out your favorite foods. Enjoy everything in moderation.

Remember, the GetFIT App takes the guesswork out of fitness. With tools like AI-coach ORION, meal plans, and expert-designed training programs, you can achieve your dream body without trial and error.

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Why Join the GetFIT App Premium Membership?

If you’re serious about building muscle, losing fat, or improving your health, the GetFIT App Premium Membership has everything you need:

  • Workout Programs: Structured plans for all fitness levels.
  • Nutrition Guidance: Hundreds of recipes, meal plans, and nutrition guides.
  • AI Coach ORION: Personalized tracking and advice for your goals.
  • Expert Support: Access to international fitness experts in training, yoga, and nutrition.

🛠️ 5-Day Free Trial: Try everything risk-free! Cancel anytime within 10 seconds.

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Who Is the GetFIT App Premium Membership For?

âś… People who want to lose weight without extreme diets.
âś… Anyone looking to build muscle and improve strength.
âś… Beginners overwhelmed with where to start.
âś… Advanced athletes seeking structured plans.
âś… Busy individuals who need quick, effective solutions.
âś… Anyone who wants a sustainable, science-based approach to fitness.

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Ready to Transform Your Fitness Journey?

Stop guessing and start progressing. Join thousands your goals with the GetFIT App Premium Membership.

đź’Ş Sign up now and enjoy your 5-day free trial! Click here now to start!

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