I came across this quote in Jillian's "Slim for life" book, and wanted to share it because i liked it so much:


"Exercise is the architect, but recovery is the builder. Without properly timed recovery, you'll stress your body, inhibit your progress and possibly injure yourself"



When we get started on a workout, we want to keep it going strong, but you have to remember that you can do too much. Working out as much as you can, for as long as you can, and as hard as you can may do you more harm than good. Our bodies need regular rest to heal and to function optimally. It’s a critical part of working out.

Rest and recovery helps your muscles repair and rebuild, provide you the opportunity to replenish lost vitamins, minerals and fluids and keep you from burning out --- thus losing your motivation. If you don't allow your body to rest, you may face a higher risk of injury, excessive fatigue, chronic pain, loss of appetite, insomnia and more frequent colds and other illnesses. In women, too much exercise may also negatively affect menstrual cycle.

Ideally, you should schedule a day off every two to three days, but failing that, one day's rest per week is crucial - even if you feel like you don't "need" to. Light exercise, such as running errands or catching up on housework, is OK during these days. As is gentle yoga or a stroll in the park.

Be good to your body and it will be good to you.