I'm 41 (almost 42). I have been working out (weights, cardio, etc.) *faithfully* since March 2001. I have never taken more than a week off at a time. I have lost 20 pounds and 8 clothing sizes. However, my results have come to a standstill and no matter what I do things are not changing. I have been told from a couple friends (one a personal trainer, the other studying to be a pt) that I may need a rest period. Lately (within the last two weeks) I have not been able to lift as heavy as I normally do and my heart rate goes up a lot faster when I do cardio than before. They are suggesting a rest period of 2-4 weeks and then for the next 4 weeks only working out at 50-65% for heart rate.
I am SO afraid of losing ground. They have told me I will NOT lose ground and that when I start again I will see results. I love to exercise and even thinking about that long of rest saddens me. (Okay, I'm obsessed, but it makes me feel so good and relieves so much stress!) Anyway, what do you think? Will I lose ground? Is that too long? Should I do it? During the rest time, can I still take walks, do Pilates/Callanetics/ab work?
Thanks so much for your time, Cathe!!!
Tammy C. in WA
married 22 years to my best friend, Steve
just Mom to 2 terrific sons (22 - married, 20 - engaged)
homeschooling Mom to 5 fantastic sons (14, 12, 10, 8, and 5)
I am SO afraid of losing ground. They have told me I will NOT lose ground and that when I start again I will see results. I love to exercise and even thinking about that long of rest saddens me. (Okay, I'm obsessed, but it makes me feel so good and relieves so much stress!) Anyway, what do you think? Will I lose ground? Is that too long? Should I do it? During the rest time, can I still take walks, do Pilates/Callanetics/ab work?
Thanks so much for your time, Cathe!!!
Tammy C. in WA
married 22 years to my best friend, Steve
just Mom to 2 terrific sons (22 - married, 20 - engaged)
homeschooling Mom to 5 fantastic sons (14, 12, 10, 8, and 5)