5 Day Workout Split

5 day workout split

Balancing our bustling lives with effective gym sessions is a puzzle we all want to solve. Crafting a workout plan that maximizes our time while achieving desired results can be quite the challenge. So, how do you determine the ideal balance between weight training and cardio? How can you seamlessly integrate all your fitness aspirations into a single, harmonious weekly routine?

Let’s delve into the answers and unveil the secrets to crafting a well-structured workout plan. Whether you’re considering a 5 day workout split, a 4 day split, or a 3 day split, strategic planning serves as your invaluable ally. Achieving equilibrium between strength training and cardiovascular workouts is attainable with the right approach. Your ultimate objective is to create a meticulously organized weekly schedule that perfectly aligns with your fitness objectives.

Keep reading as we shed light on the art of optimizing workout splits, mastering your gym time, and achieving your fitness goals with finesse.

The Ultimate Guide to Planning Workouts

Keep in mind, one of the benefits of a program like Persist is that I’ve done it all for you. The training is balanced throughout the week over 4 or 5 days depending on which track you follow. Additionally, there are optional active recovery sessions on rest days and bonus extra cardio workouts, or simply opt for a leisurely walk.

However, many of you – including myself – don’t always seamlessly align with this predetermined schedule. We often need to make minor adjustments to optimize our fitness journey. This is where having a solid framework is essential, ensuring your training functions as intended.

How Many Days of Weights Vs. Cardio?

Lifting weights isn’t just about building muscle; it’s a gateway to improved functional capacity and an appealing physique. At 38, I’ve come to realize that incorporating focused aerobic work and metabolic conditioning is essential for well-rounded fitness.

Balanced Approach to Weights and Cardio


Combining consistent weight lifting and regular cardio delivers a powerful fitness boost. By committing to both, you’re on the fast track to achieving health, body composition, and fitness goals.

Optimal Weight Training Frequency

My 12-year coaching experience underscores that the sweet spot for weight training is 3 to 5 days per week. While 2 or 6 days are possible, they can lead to issues. That’s why Persist recommends 4 or 5 days per week.

Avoiding Common Pitfalls: Embrace Traditional Lifting Styles

In coaching CrossFit, I noticed an obsession with Metcon. While high-intensity circuits are appealing, they overshadow the benefits of traditional weight lifting seen in bodybuilding and powerlifting routines. Integrating these practices 3 to 5 times a week is crucial for well-rounded results. Remember, with a 5-day workout split, lifting weights takes center stage.

The Purpose of Metcons

The allure of CrossFit’s metcon lies in its ability to introduce individuals to the essence of intensity and unwavering effort. These pivotal elements are what transform weight training into something truly enchanting. They infuse vitality into exercises like the 3 sets of 10 bench press, effectively eliminating monotony and boosting overall effectiveness. Moreover, the dynamic movements and ever-changing routines within CrossFit aptly address the need for novelty, a demand that modern lifestyles reinforce.

However, in the realm of today’s fitness landscape, innovation is not just a desire, but an expectation. This is precisely where the concept of integrating metcons within a resistance training program becomes invaluable. Such a strategic approach not only rekindles the experience of intensity but also injects a myriad of variations into an otherwise linear progression-focused weight training regimen.

When metcons are thoughtfully crafted to prioritize controlled, high-quality lifts and contractions, the outcome is a harmonious blend of vigor and safety. To this end, I’ve curated Functional Pump Conditioning workouts, seamlessly merging the best of metcon exhilaration with meticulously researched weight training progressions. With the 5 Day Workout Split as our canvas, the realm of fitness blossoms into a symphony of intensity, innovation, and proven advancement.

Metcons Per Week: Quality over quantity

You might be surprised to learn that you could need ZERO metcons per week. Prioritize progressive weight lifting and a balanced diet. Add daily low-intensity cardio or general activity. This approach can lead to desired physical, mental, and performance outcomes.

Fueling Consistency with Functional Pump Conditioning Workouts

Enhance your training experience and stay consistent with well-designed Functional Pump Conditioning workouts. These workouts offer both enjoyment and essential cardio in a single package. That’s why we incorporate them across all our training tracks – a seamless solution for sustained consistency and cardiovascular health.

Embrace proven fitness strategies with the 5 Day Workout Split and experience the power of simplicity in achieving your goals.

Weekly Cardio

Curious about the right amount of cardio? Here’s the scoop: daily cardio is key. Low-intensity steady state cardio can be as simple as walking. Target 10,000 to 12,000 steps daily (about 1 to 1.25 hours of walking), achieved through short walks and everyday tasks.

If your job isn’t highly active (like nursing or delivery), aiming for steps is a great baseline for cardio.

However, while this baseline cardio is beneficial, structured cardio offers more health perks. For enhanced health, performance, and aesthetics, aim for 3 to 5 cardio sessions weekly, each about 30 minutes long. Accumulating 90 to 150 weekly minutes can elevate cognitive function, heart health, and energy balance.

Additionally, discover balanced cardio strategies with the 5 Day Workout Split for optimal fitness gains.

Try Persist 2 weeks free

Persist takes the challenge out of creating workout splits. Try a free two week trial for four tracks of training, plus bonus ebooks.

More Resources

Look Good. Move Well.

Workouts for sculpted arms and a six pack are different than those for speed and power. Get my blend of both and a sample nutrition plan. Plus a Big Bicep Bonus for my favorite arm finishers!