Quick Testimony on the Benefits of a Rest Week

[Lynn M.]

Hi all-

So... after a two year stint of not ever taking an entire week off of exercise and some very wise posts a few weeks ago by some fellow Catheites, I decided last week would be my week to be "exercise free".

I planned it to coincide with a 5 day work/pleasure trip out to the West Coast ( San Diego) with my husband and son.

I have to tell you that the first couple of days were a bit difficult, especially when I saw how awesome the hotel gym was and the beautiful running paths throughout the city. I also think I was a bit cranky from not getting a daily fix of endorphins. However by day 3, it was amazing how good I felt for the rest of the week!

I loved being able to take a mental break from trying to figure out my schedule on how to "fit" in my workout. I also didn't realize how fatigued my body really was. I had really been pushing it hard and it was amazing to find that I am really much less stiff and sore after some time off!

I got back to the gym and my workouts yesterday. I was very happy to report that I had much more endurance and strength in my lifting and even my cardio capacity felt good. My mental focus was rejuvenated too and the workout didn't feel so much like I was "going through the motions."

If you've been hitting it hard and are contemplating taking some time off, but are a bit apprehensive. Don't be. Rest weeks work!!

PS.. I also found that my appetite was significantly less during my rest week too, which helped balance the fact that I wasn't exercising.

Take care, Lynn M.

 

[CollinsMom]

Good for you, Lynn!! I totally agree that an extended rest/recovery is good for the mind, body, and soul every now and again!!

 

[SRP]

Thanks a lot, Lynn. I've been dealing with a couple of repeat injuries that just won't go away. I've been modifying where needed, and this week was planning on a non-cardio week to give one injury more time to heal. Then, believe it or not, while I was out walking at lunch today, I began to wonder if I should just throw in the towel and take a complete rest week. Your post certainly came at the right time, and makes me feel a bit better about doing it.

 

[PhyllisG]

I took a complete rest week off a few months ago and swore I would do it every few months. I felt great and even lost a couple of pounds. When I went back to working out it was better than ever. Really I should thank everyone who encouraged me to do it because I was burning out and not enjoying it any longer but I couldn't stop.

 

[Boybert]

Thank you, thank you, THANK YOU, Lynn! I could just smooch you. Resting is just as important as eating right and staying shape. I tip my barbell to you, and kudos on coming back refreshed. WHOOT.


Debbie

I don't want to take a pill. Go to Africa, go follow some bushman around. He's being chased by a lion. That's stress. You're not going to find a pygmy on Paxil, I'll tell you that right now.
-Ellen Degeneres

 

[taprice]

Lynn,


I've worked out everyday for years (20+), and rarely take a day off, except during my pregnancies. About 3 years ago, I decided that I wasn't going to structure our family vacations around my workouts. Taking a rest week, and two years ago almost two weeks, did me a world of good. Not only was I physically rested, I came back stronger without the nagging injuries and aches that I had before. Plus, I learned that it is as beneficial to rest as it is to workout. I usually drop a little weight too, which is an added benefit.

The other benefit, as you said, was that I wasn't on vacation constantly thinking about when/how I was going to workout and I could focus on my family.

Tracy

 

[deed]

I have also been working out for years and have never taken a rest week off and was wondering when and how often should you do this? Is there a certain amount of time that you work out and then take your week off? I haven't even missed a scheduled day so I am more than a little aprehensive about doing this, but after reading all your testimonies it might be worthwhile. Thanks in advance.

 

[Lynn M.]

Hi Deed-

I am not sure that there is a "set" time that you should take the total rest week off. There are so many factors that come into play, such as intensity of workouts, your age, type of workouts etc.

After taking my week off, I am thinking that maybe every six months might be a good thing to shoot for. However, I've learned my lesson on how important it is to listen to your body so if its sooner or later than that, its OK.

Also, Thanks everybody for the encouragement and comments on my post. It was great hearing from all of you!

Take care, Lynn M.