I just took nearly a week off of training; it felt great but was hard to do "in my head." Once you begin to see and feel results it can be very difficult to make the conscious decision to stop for a few days. I was going on a long weekend getaway; I'd been working out hard, so I thought about it. As I packed my bag I looked over at my gym shoes sitting on the floor. To work out or not to; that was the question. I'd been hitting it hard and I was feeling like I could use a break. In one moment I made the decision, no working out. I took Thursday - Tuesday off; completely off, no gym workouts at all. But, I did do planks and I did run stairs.
Slipping in a little "get your blood rushing and heart pumping" can be all you need during a break.
Taking a 5 day break is great for your body to rejuvenate is smart; especially when you've been hitting it hard. It not only lets your body rest; but it lets your mind rest as well. It is a good time to think about your workout routine and maybe switching it up a bit. It most definitely gives you time to ponder on your diet. With a lack of working out; your focus naturally goes to what you are putting into your body. You don't want to not work out and pig out at the same time. I watched what I ate; tried to keep it real as far as eating clean and kept my small portions in check.
I did a lot of wine tasting; being that my break was in wine country. So I am sure that a few extra pounds accompanied me on the way home but I am not looking back with regret. Nope, I'm looking back at the fabulous weekend that I had. I am a firm believer in doing what makes you happy; and if that means eating great food and drinking amazing wine, then do it. But do it in moderation. I believe that if you deprive yourself from the things you love then you will tend to go down the "poor me" ramp. Instead of up the "ya, I feel great for hitting the gym and eating great" one.
I was back at the gym yesterday and my body most definitely thanked me for the rest. I not only had more power but more motivation. You can burn out on anything in life if you over do it. That means working out as well. I know a couple of people who over did it and now they don't do it at all anymore. You have to be careful not to let that happen. Working out and lifting is not a quick fix deal; it is a way of life, forever. If you want to feel great always then you must exercise and keep the body you were given, strong and active. If not you will turn to mush; "use it or lose it" as they say.
Take a break, have some fun and forget the lifting for a couple of days. It's good for you. :)
