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Training the Same Muscle on Consecutive Days – Is That a Mistake?

Here’s why your plan might include training the same muscle two days in a row.

Daniel avatar
Written by Daniel
Updated yesterday

In short: No, it’s not a mistake.
MyFitCoach builds your training plan based on your personal situation – taking into account key factors like training frequency, available equipment, training goals, volume requirements, and recovery ability. In some scenarios, training the same muscle two days in a row can actually be intentional and beneficial.


Why might this happen?

In most cases, MyFitCoach aims for a balanced weekly distribution of training stimulus. However, you may be scheduled to train a muscle on back-to-back days due to:

  • Limited available training days

  • Short daily training time

  • Restricted exercise or equipment access

  • Higher volume needs for specific muscles

  • Individual goals or preferences

In these cases, MyFitCoach always selects the best possible configuration based on your setup. If a muscle is worked on two consecutive days, it’s done intentionally – to avoid overload while ensuring optimal volume distribution.


A Common Misconception

Many believe that 15 sets of biceps in one day are more effective than splitting 8 sets on Day 1 and 7 on Day 2. But studies show that training quality drops significantly as total sets per session increase due to:

  • Neuromuscular fatigue

  • Decreased movement quality

  • Reduced muscle activation per set

That’s why it’s often smarter to split the volume – even with just 24 hours of rest. This avoids “junk volume” (ineffective sets due to exhaustion) and keeps training intensity high.


What if I don’t like this approach?

If you prefer a split or setup where the same muscle isn't trained two days in a row, MyFitCoach allows full customization:

You can adjust:

  • Training frequency (e.g., from 3 to 4 days/week)

  • Workout duration (e.g., from 30 to 45 minutes)

  • Training split (e.g., push/pull vs. full body)

👉 See here for available splits in the app:
Which splits are available in the app?

By modifying these variables, you can avoid overlapping muscle sessions—if your weekly routine allows.


Summary

Training a muscle on two consecutive days isn’t a flaw – in some cases, it’s the most effective option within your selected parameters. MyFitCoach prioritizes long-term training quality, minimizes unnecessary fatigue, and ensures targeted muscle stimulus – even if that breaks traditional “bro rules.”

Have questions or need help adjusting your plan?


Contact us anytime at support@myfitcoach.de – we’re happy to help!


References

  • Schoenfeld, B. J., Ogborn, D., & Krieger, J. W. (2016). Dose-response relationship between weekly resistance training volume and increases in muscle mass: A systematic review and meta-analysis. Journal of Sports Sciences, 35(11), 1073–1082.

  • Schoenfeld, B. J., Grgic, J., & Krieger, J. W. (2019). Effects of resistance training frequency on measures of muscle hypertrophy: A systematic review and meta-analysis. Sports Medicine, 49(8), 1377–1387.

  • Raastad, T., et al. (2000). Neuromuscular fatigue and recovery after heavy resistance training. Journal of Strength and Conditioning Research, 14(4), 456–464.

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