How Many Different Exercises Per Workout?

Introduction

When it comes to creating an effective workout plan, the number of different exercises you should do per workout session can be a tricky question to answer. Generally speaking, “exercises per workout” refers to the number of different exercises, or activities, that make up one full workout session. This could include anything from running and weightlifting to stretching and yoga.

In this article, we will discuss different strategies for selecting and combining exercises in order to create an effective and balanced workout routine. We will explore the benefits of circuit training, High Intensity Interval Training (HIIT), and other methods for mixing up your exercise routine.

Create a Circuit Routine

One way to incorporate a variety of exercises into your workout is to design a circuit of exercises. A circuit is a series of exercises performed back-to-back with minimal rest between each exercise. According to Dr. Christopher Mohr, Ph.D., RD, “circuit training is a great way to get a lot of work done in a short amount of time.”

Designing a circuit of exercises can be as simple as choosing four to five exercises that target different muscle groups, such as lunges, push-ups, squats, shoulder presses, and crunches. You can then perform each exercise for a set number of repetitions before moving on to the next exercise. The key to designing an effective circuit is to choose exercises that target different muscle groups and are performed in alternating patterns.

Circuit training has many benefits, including improved cardiovascular health, increased muscular strength and endurance, and improved coordination. Additionally, it can help to burn calories more efficiently and may even help to reduce body fat levels.

Develop a HIIT Workout

High Intensity Interval Training (HIIT) is another great way to mix up your exercise routine. HIIT involves alternating periods of high-intensity exercise with low-intensity recovery intervals. For example, you might alternate 30 seconds of sprinting with 30 seconds of walking.

The benefits of HIIT workouts are numerous. Studies have shown that HIIT can help to improve aerobic fitness, increase metabolic rate, and even reduce body fat levels. In addition, HIIT workouts can be completed in a relatively short amount of time, making them ideal for those with busy schedules.

Mix It Up

Another way to ensure that you are getting a variety of exercises in each workout is to mix it up. This can involve doing different exercises each time you exercise or simply adding new exercises to your existing routine. Doing different exercises provides a number of benefits, including preventing boredom, increasing motivation, and helping you to reach your fitness goals more quickly.

For example, if you normally run for 20 minutes, try switching things up by adding some interval training or hill sprints to your routine. Not only will this help to keep your workouts interesting, but it will also challenge your body in different ways, leading to greater overall fitness gains.

Go for Variety

Variety is key when it comes to creating an effective workout plan. Instead of focusing solely on one type of exercise, such as running or weightlifting, strive to incorporate a variety of exercise types into your routine. This could include running, cycling, swimming, yoga, and even strength training.

By mixing up your exercise routine, you can maximize the benefits of each activity. For example, running can help to improve your cardiovascular health, while strength training can help to build muscle and increase bone density. Additionally, incorporating different types of exercise can help to prevent boredom and keep your workouts interesting.

Muscle Group Focus

When selecting exercises for your workout, it is important to consider which muscle groups you are targeting. For example, if you are looking to strengthen your arms, you may want to focus on bicep curls and triceps extensions. If you are looking to strengthen your core, exercises such as planks, crunches, and leg lifts can be beneficial.

In addition to targeting specific muscle groups, you can also incorporate exercises that work multiple muscle groups at once. Squats, for example, work not only your legs but also your core and upper body. Push-ups work your chest, shoulders, and triceps. By choosing exercises that work multiple muscle groups, you can save time and make your workouts more efficient.

Weight Training Combos

A great way to mix up your routine is to combine weight training and cardio exercises. By combining these two types of exercises, you can ensure that you are getting a well-rounded workout. Weight training helps to build muscle and increase strength, while cardio exercises help to improve cardiovascular fitness and burn calories.

For example, you could start your workout with 10 minutes of running followed by 10 minutes of weightlifting. This would allow you to get the benefits of both running and weightlifting in one workout session. Additionally, this type of workout can help to keep your workouts interesting and challenging.

Core Workouts

Core exercises are another great way to mix up your exercise routine. Core exercises are designed to target the muscles of the abdomen, lower back, and hips. Examples of core exercises include planks, crunches, side bridges, and bird dogs. Incorporating core exercises into your workout routine can help to improve posture, balance, and stability, as well as strengthen your core muscles.

Conclusion

In conclusion, there are many different strategies for incorporating a variety of exercises into your workout routine. From circuit training to HIIT workouts and weight training combos, there are plenty of options for creating an effective and balanced workout plan. Additionally, by focusing on exercises that target specific muscle groups and incorporating core exercises, you can ensure that you are getting the most out of your workouts.

By following the tips outlined in this article, you can create an effective workout plan that incorporates a variety of exercises. This will help to keep your workouts interesting and challenging, and maximize the benefits of each exercise.