Can I take 2 weeks off exercise?

mrsmel

mrsmel

Cathlete
So, I have an insanely busy week at work this week and then I'm going on vacation (which is part of why work is so busy). I usually exercise 5 to 6 days per week, almost every week. I take rest weeks when I go to conferences or on vacation, about 3 or 4 per year.

I'm thinking of taking 2 weeks off. I have a few aches and pains, I'm tired, and I have a lot to do to get ready to go away.

So, what do you think? Do any of you ever take 2 planned weeks off exercise? If so, did you lose a lot of strength or stamina? TIA.

anne
 
I recently took 10 days off from exercise. It was a "forced" rest due to family issues. I haven't taken off that much time from exercise since January of 2006. I was afraid that I would lose my stamina and strength but in fact I felt better than ever. I started back last Tuesday and felt great. In fact, I feel stronger and more motivated than ever before.

Since you are experiencing some aches and pains, I would take off this week and enjoy your vacation next week. When you get back you'll be refreshed and ready to get back to working out.
 
Anne,
I have not taken two weeks off, but I would do it if my schedule dictated it and I was feeling rundown. You shouldn't lose strength or stamina after 14 days, but at the 3-4 week mark, you probably would. However, even at that point, it wouldn't be tough to get back on track. So, I would take the two weeks, and if possible, try to be somewhat active on vacation ~ biking, walking, perhaps a run or two if you feel up to it (and you like to run). I'll bet once you recharge from your vacation, you'll feel ready to dive back into your routine.

Enjoy your time away!

[font face="heather" font color=brick red size=+2]~Cathy [/font face] http://us.i1.yimg.com/us.yimg.com/i/mesg/emoticons7/4.gif
"Out on the roads there is fitness and self-discovery and the persons we were destined to be." -George Sheehan
 
Anne, I think you should listen to your body. If you are on vacation and feel like walking, then do it. If not, don't. You will not lose any muscle strength by being off, but you may find you lose a tiny bit of cardio and muscle endurance once you start back up.The more fit you are, the more you have to lose at a quicker pace. But, Cathy is right - due to your conditioning currently, it will not be hard to get back on track. YOu already sound like a motivated person! Have a fun vacation!!
Clarissa
 
i've never taken that long off but i don't think you will get bad effects from doing so. i myself am thinking of takeing the rest of the week off. i've been tired as well. its been almost a year since my last off week. so i think its time.
 
Thanks, everybody! I will be walking a lot on vacation, I may take my running shoes, I haven't decided yet. I'm just going to rest for these 2 weeks and not sweat it (or not, ha!). If I do lose a little strength or stamina, Cathe will help me get it back, right? Thank you again.

anne
 
I took 2 weeks in August. And when I did I lifted heavier. I guess my body needed that well deserved rest!Annette
 
I'm so glad you asked this question! I have been so worn out lately taking care of my babies that I just have not wanted to work out...first time in my life I have felt this way. I am going to take a week off, too.

Have a GREAT time on your vacation!!
 
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