Cathe, your thoughts on zero rest days? Massage Therapy? Foam Rollers

[papaya]

Hi Cathe, I know we are all encouraged to take at least one day off for recovery but what are your thoughts on an "active" rest day where you are resting the worked bodyparts/muscles but still active? For instance, I find Sundays are when I treasure doing my favorite trail hike....its not overly strenuous but its not a stroll in the park. I listen to my body and don't feel overworked but I am also working hard those other 6 days. Or sometimes my "rest day" will be a nice Power Yoga session. Again, I'm working but not overdoing it.

Also, would appreciate your feedback on sports massage after finishing tough rotations. I like to spoil myself with a deep tissue/sports massage every 3 weeks or so as I finish my various rotations. I feel this really is a "recovery" for my body since afterwards I feel my body is realigned, posture feels different, muscles feel longer, etc. What are your thoughts on massage therapy vs time off? Again, I listen to my body and don't ever feel like I'm overtraining yet I'm still seeing gains and meeting my various goals.

One last comment is my recent discovery of foam rollers. I've recently picked up a foam roller pilates workout and wondered if you've ever considered adding a session for a foam roller core/ab type routine? I find it extremely effective for both massage and as a concentrated core workout

 

[Cathe Friedrich]

Hi Papaya! You are doing great with listening to your body. Continue to follow that lead. I usually encourage having one total rest day from fitness training but that doesn't HAVE to be the case if you are feeling fine, doing a couple of less strenuous activities per week, and still seeing positive results.

If this no longer happens, it will be your warning sign that overtraining could be creeping into your routine. Just keep listening to your body and you'll be fine.

Deep tissue massage is great therapeutic reward, keep it up!

Thanks for sharing your input regarding the foam rollers. I'll check it out sometime

 

[papaya]

RE: Cathe, your thoughts on zero rest days? Massage Th...

Thanks Cathe for your feedback! Wishing you a speedy recovery from your injury!