Can I go for a walk on my rest day?

emilysusana

I’ve been running and doing strength training for almost 2 months now. I usually do something 7 days a week (but just a brisk walk one of the days). Now I’m on week 1 of a half marathon training program and it calls for two rest days a week. Are walks (I usually go 3 miles) ok or will that make recovery less optimal?

The extra calorie burn from exercise really helps 🙂

JustSomeEm

If you are used to those 3 mile walks then they shouldn't hurt recovery.

Edited to add: they may actually help recovery as you begin to increase mileage by stretching out the muscles. Though you might want to consider not pushing yourself too hard and walking a little less briskly.

emilysusana

Thank you! I don’t want to overdo it, but the walks don’t feel strenuous. I’ll keep them less brisk for sure. My day definitely feels more balanced if I include some kind of exercise in the morning. .

TavistockToad

emilysusana wrote: »

I’ve been running and doing strength training for almost 2 months now. I usually do something 7 days a week (but just a brisk walk one of the days). Now I’m on week 1 of a half marathon training program and it calls for two rest days a week. Are walks (I usually go 3 miles) ok or will that make recovery less optimal?

The extra calorie burn from exercise really helps 🙂

walking is fine, though i wouldn't set a distance on them, as you may only want to do a mile or 2 sometimes, depending how your legs feel.