Total body training two days in a row?
I haven’t worked out in years since having my son. Very happy to have just joined a gym and am consistently attending the total body conditioning classes – some are cross training, some are boot camp style, all seem to incorporate cardio and interval training. I use 5 pound weights right now. Typically they ask us to do 3-4 sets of 8-10 reps of upper body work. Lower body work is incorporated through squats, etc. sometimes holding the weights. I am generally tired by the end but am able to complete all reps. Under this scenario, is it okay to work out (attend different classes) two to three days in a row and then rest for one or two days, even if my muscles are slightly sore (no excruciating pain or limited range of movement). I know this is a lot of detail, but haven’t seen this specific question answered anywhere on the net and am hoping to get good information so that I can workout with some intelligence, see results and not hurt myself. I’m not looking to get big, just toned and drop some body fat. Thank you for your help!!
Thank you everyone for your very helpful and informative answers. Some of you have asked for more information from me in order to be more specific which I am happy to provide:
age: 45
son’s age: 3.5
height: 5’4″
current weight: 130
sleep: not great – around 6.5 avg. hours per night
diet: not bad, not great. I try. Considering Jenny Craig or Nutrisystem to give me a jump start.
goal weight: 115-118 My frame is small and this is where I am most comfortable.
job: desk job/work from home, so no physical activity
fitness goal: mainly to drop body fat (especially the little remainder from the pregnancy on my lower abdomen and hips) and tone everywhere.
I’ve been working out 3-4 times a week by going to a group fitness or cardio class and so far haven’t seen any visible results on scale, in mirror or fit of clothes. Should I have? Should I concentrate on cardio at first in order to burn that fat? Add another workout day? Any guidance is much appreciated!