Overtraining vs. Rest

Q: I work out my upper body, chest,arms,shoulders,abs,and back a few times a week. Is there a certain schedule that you can recommend so i can build muscle without overtraining my muscles? I have reached a plateau and would like to get bigger. Also i have red colored tears or stretch marks from my upper pecs to my shoulder, what causes this and can i get bigger without getting these marks? Thank you for your time and knowledge.

A:  Muscles need 48 hrs. to repair after having been exercised. so, you can exercise the same muscle group every other day. Most people alternate upper body one day then lower body the next and you should give yourself at least one day per week of rest to ensure that you are ready and your muscles and peak readiness to work again. Rest will help you get over the plateau.

As your muscles get bigger your skin has to stretch to accomidate the growth. Try to keep your skin moisturized with lotions and that might help minimize the stretch marks. You might want to add some lower body workout into the mix. You don't want to be walking around with a big upper body and really small legs now do you?

Good Luck,

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