Believe it or not, athletes and wannabe athletes can benefit
from taking a rest. In fact training
plans for any race length from 5K to marathon incorporate rest days into the
schedule. Rest days allow your body to
recuperate from the challenges of a training schedule. I have found that even a short break or rest during
a run can sometimes help me run farther.
Catch your breath. A beginning runner, or even an
experienced runner adding distance to her routine, can benefit from a short
walk break. For beginners a walk break
is a chance to catch your breath and discover that you can recover and run a
little farther. Use these breaks to push
yourself that extra half mile. Next time
you run, shorten the break but cover the same distance.
Rejuvenate your muscles. It’s okay to give your muscles a
day off. In fact, rest days may help to
prevent injury, especially stress injuries.
If the schedule says to take time off – do it. Take a brain break. I have found that rest days are as important to my mental commitment as they are to my physical well-being. When I take time off I miss running and missing something, at least for me makes it all the more appealing. I miss the feeling of accomplishment I get after a good run. I miss the feeling of physical exhaustion and the relaxation of recovery. I miss my running buddies.
Take a rest. It’s okay. In fact, it’s recommended!
(Runners World 10 Signs you need a rest day)
Read more about rest days HERE.
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