A common question when a person starts exercising is how long does it take to build muscle, and the answer can be a complex one. As we age, muscle mass and strength decrease – especially in men, who are noted to lose muscle mass at a faster rate than women of the same age. That said, the more muscle that is present when starting an exercise programme, the more changes will be seen during training. Muscle response to resistance training is different in men and women for many reasons. Factors may include body size, composition, and different hormones. *Some common strength training methods include: 1-body weight exercises, such as push-ups, pull-ups, squats, and lunges. 2-resistance band exercises weights that can include dumbbells, kettle balls, cans, or water jugs. 3-weight machines, such as those used in a gym or home gym.

Typically, it is recommended that strength training is done at least 2 days a week and includes all major muscle groups of the body. These major muscle groups include those in the arms, legs, back, and chest.

An individual should be careful not to overdo it with the weights they use to avoid unnecessary injury. It is important to gradually increase the amount and type of weight used to build strength.

It is recommended that 8 to 10 strength training exercises are done 2 or more days a week. These should be completed in groups of 8 to 12 repetitions using the 2 to 3 sets principle. This means that a person repeats the movement of each exercise 8 to 12 times and then again 2 to 3 times.

As the body increases its strength, a person may find it easy to complete the 8 to 12 repetitions using the same weight.

Some in the fitness world say that an individual can progress to heavier weights once they are able to complete more than 12 repetitions using the same weight.

What is the role of diet in building muscle?

While exercising is great for building muscle and strength, diet is an essential factor in muscle growth and development.

Certain macronutrients and micronutrients play a critical role in muscle development and strength.

Macronutrients consist of proteins, carbohydrates, and fats and are essential for proper body function.

Protein is vital for the body to function normally. Proteins including meat, dairy, other animal products, nuts, grains, and beans are necessary for bone, skin, organ, hormone, enzyme, antibody, and neurotransmitter function. Proteins that a person consumes are broken down into vital amino acids.

Carbohydrates are the body’s energy source and are divided into simple or complex carbs.

Simple carbs break down very quickly, while complex carbs take longer to digest. Sources of carbohydrates include fruits, vegetables, and grains and should account for 40 to 60 percent of a person’s daily calorie intake.

Fats should account for around 20 to 30 percent of daily calorie intake. Common dietary sources of fats include:

• avocado

• butter or ghee

• coconut oil

• extra virgin olive oil

• omega-3s from fish sources

• nuts

• seeds

• eggs

• MCT (medium-chain triglycerides) oil

• full-fat dairy and chocolate.