Rest/Recoery Days

matt6050

Hey All,

I'm trying t figure out exactly how often I should be resting. I'm currently trying to gain weight, but I am not doing a regimented strength training program. What I AM doing is 2-3 days/week of running for about 40 minutes (I know that that is NOT what I am supposed to be doing for weight gain, but I just really enjoy getting the fresh air), and 4-6 days of rock climbing/week, and doing some strength maybe 1-2 times/week to supplement climbing.

My weekly climbing usually has two high volume low intensity day (lots of easy routes to failure; 45-50 boulder problems, minimal rest), two high intensity low volume day (working on about 20 difficult, but not maxed out boulder problems, minimal rest), and one day where I try the routes that I haven't yet done (very high intensity in short intervals with moderate rest). The climbing sessions usually last about 1.5-2 hours.

My question is: how often should I be resting in order to maximize my gains? Right now, I am taking about 1 day completely off from all activity (except long walks to get outside), but I never take more than one day in a row off (I am either running or climbing or both occasionally). Should I take more consecutive rest days? More rest days in general? Or is what I am doing acceptable?

Thanks,
Matt

matt6050

Also, if I feel sore on what is supposed to be a workout day, should I still work out?

Thanks,
matt

xsmilexforxmex

In general, I think most people stick to 4-6 workouts a week with 1 rest day. If you are consistently getting DOMS or see your progress halt, take more time, like work out 3x a week instead with a day of rest in between.