Taking a break

fteale
fteale Posts: 5,310 Member
edited September 26 in Fitness and Exercise
What do people think of this? I was working out very hard for most of March, but once the school holidays started had to stop as I don't have childcare, and we were on holiday and frankly apart from on 45 minute run I couldn't be bothered to exercise (though we were walking 2-5 hours a day sightseeing).

Anyway, I went to aerobics for the first time in 2 weeks tonight, thinking I'd find it hard after so long off, but I found it far easier than usual (we were doing the hardest routine). I really feel like my body has benefitted from some time off heavy exercise. It was beginning to feel a bit knackered tbh before we went away.

So are breaks advised? Do you do this, or keep up your routine year round?

Replies

  • Taylor521
    Taylor521 Posts: 48 Member
    yea, it probably is good for you as long as it isnt excessive and you dont start eating 3000 calories a day
  • sarah44254
    sarah44254 Posts: 3,078 Member
    every 6 weeks or so i take a break. it lasts about a week to 10 days and it is not planned! this has just happened naturally for me, I guess. I get pooped or busy and I just take it easy for a little bit.

    I continue eating my calorie goal and making healthy choices, I keep up on the water intake and generally do all I need to in every aspect except the exercise.

    I don't think it will hurt you at all. In fact, working TOO hard EVERY day is more devious to your body that taking a break day. :)
  • Ely82010
    Ely82010 Posts: 1,998 Member
    Yes, when I take a week or two off from my regular exercise routine, I feel stronger when I came back, as long as the break is not longer than 2 weeks. I even manage to loose a couple of lbs while on vacation.

    Our muscles get stronger when we rest, and by changing our exercise and eating routine our bodies get also confused.
  • Mayor_West
    Mayor_West Posts: 246 Member
    I've heard of people taking a break and coming back refreshed and with very little drop off in terms of strength and/or endurance.

    I, however, have found that taking a week off does affect me negatively. The few times I have taken time off, even for a week, I found my strength to be off a bit. Of course, sometimes I have little choice in the matter, especially when I've been sick. But, considering how much working out is a huge part of my life and identity, I can't consciously bring myself to take time off.
  • fteale
    fteale Posts: 5,310 Member
    Working out is nothing to my identity, I just do it because I want my body to work the way I expect it to. It's a means to an end for me. I know for marathon training you are supposed to wind it down, and have a rest week the week before the race so I suppose it makes sense.

    I do need to get training for my next race now, though!
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