Weight training - How much is too much?

[KimDW]

Haven't posted in awhile. Good to be back. I was wondering if it is OK to do back to back strength training. For example:

Monday/Wednesday/Friday: 40 mins step with 15 mins toning (5 lb hand weights) upper and lower.

Tuesday/Thursday/Saturday: Body Bar class at gym: 15-18 lb bar (upper and lower body) with circuit cardio inbetween sets.

I mainly go to the gym but getting a little bored with the step class. They are going to start a new class called Bosu Ball (anyone heard of this??) so until then I'm thinking of getting my Cathe workouts out and doing some stuff at home but I don't want to overdo it on the strength. If I only use 5-8 lb handweights will that be OK on MON/WED/FRI???

I hope this wasn't confusing.
Thanks,
Kimbra

 

[AKirkland]

Unless you're really new to working out with weights, I think the ones you mention are light enough to be used on a daily basis.

 

[AllisonT]

You should be OK with 5#, but 8# is a moderate weight for small muscle groups like shoulders and triceps, so be careful there. As always, the best gauge will be how your body feels. Sometimes I use 5# dumbbells one day after a heavy upper body workout. It helps me work out any muscle soreness from my chest, biceps and triceps, but sometimes I REALLY feel it in my shoulders and not in a good way. They feel tired before the workout and even more tired after. I know that's my signal to back off and not do any weighted shoulder work at all for at least a full day and maybe two.

Allison