Your Biggest Workout Questions, Answered
Working out can be challenging, especially when you are just starting out.
How do I adjust this machine? Am I doing this right? What do I do next? Know that we have all been there, and you are not alone! To help, we have gathered up some FA-workout-Q’s that you might want answered.
What set-to-rep ratio is best?
The best ratio depends on what your goals are. If you are working on max strength, do 4–6 sets with 1–5 reps. If your goal is increasing hypertrophy, do 3–5 sets of 6–12 reps. If your goals are strength-endurance-based, do 2–3 sets of 15–30 reps.
How do I get out of a plateau?
The best way to get out of a plateau is to switch up your routine and prioritize your weaknesses. Focus on the muscle groups you tend to ignore or know you can improve. Switch up your set-to-rep ratio or throw in a new exercise to train your muscles in a new way. If you usually lift, try cycling, running or swimming to work those same muscle groups in a new way.
Should I do cardio before or after weight training?
Cardio before or after weight training is more of a personal preference. Cardio helps warm up your muscles, but it is also great for loosening them up in a cool down. Cardio helps warm up your muscles, but it is also great for burning calories after high intensity weight training. If your goal is improve your endurance, prioritizing cardio before your workout may be helpful. If your goal is increasing muscle size (hypertrophy) or strength, cardio after your workout would be more ideal.
How often should I work out?
It all depends on your goals. Anywhere between 3–5 times a week for 45-70 minutes is healthy and, depending on what you are doing, will also create results. Some people love working out so much that some days they do it not for results, but just to feel good. How often you should work out depends on your schedule, how much time you are willing to commit, and what your ultimate goal is.
Which is better: cardio or weight training?
Cardio and lifting are both great, so again, it depends on what your goals are. Going for leaner muscle mass and toning? Focusing on mainly cardio (2-4 times a week) and lifting twice a week is ideal. Want to bulk up or focus on max strength? Lifting is the way to go. Focusing on toning? You need both cardio and lifting. Look at your goals and decide on your routine from there. Don’t forget to consider what your body can handle. If you have had injuries to the knees, hips or ankles, then running every day may not be best for your body. If you have had back or spinal injuries, then putting a lot of weight and strain on your back by lifting isn’t the best.
What are the benefits of working with a personal trainer?
A personal trainer becomes your accountability partner. A trainer pushes you on days you might be feeling lazy or just not in the mood. They encourage you and hold you accountable. Personal trainers also teach you proper form. The biggest risk of injury when exercising is improper form. Thankfully, all of The Rec’s trainers are certified and can teach you the proper form for any exercise. A personal trainer also tailors workouts to your goals and what is best for your body.
Hopefully getting answers to these questions will help you feel more confident in your workouts. Have other questions that we did not answer? Contact us on social media @AuburnCampusRec, or reach out to our personal training staff here.
As always,
Be well, Auburn.
Photography: Abbey C.
Born in Huntsville, Alabama, Grace is a sophomore at Auburn University majoring in public relations and minoring in marketing. She has a love for sports and hopes to work as a sports marketer or media relations specialist one day. Grace also has a passion for fitness and started her own personal fitness blog. She loves hiking on beautiful, sunny days.
During the weekends you’ll find Grace at The Rec, or hiking at Chewacla. She also has a passion for cooking and loves cooking for her friends.
Fun Fact: She is obsessed with her dogs and spray tans.
