Rest days

Wed, 02/01/2008 - 1:46pm
Claire Inness
Rest days

Hello,

Can someone give me some advice about rest days? What's the deal?

- Say you take one a week, is it better to day 6 days on, 1 day off OR 3 days on, 1 off, 3 days on... and so on?
- Or does it depend on what you're training for? If you're only doing relatively low intensity training is it worth taking one at all?
- Should you automatically have a rest day after a super long hard session, or do you just take it a bit easier the next day?

Any info much appreciated,

Thanks

Claire


Wed, 02/01/2008 - 4:59pm #1
John Galuszka

Claire

There is no quick answer as there are lots of variables to consider. Your level of fitness, intensity and volume of training, planned events etc. For the best advice sitting down with a coach - e.g. Phil Richards is a good idea. Athletes who have a high level of attainment usually aim for one full day off in 7. Could be monday if you train hard at weekends or friday say if you want to go to the monday swim session at the Dragon. A day off should be a day off though, not a low intensity workout.

It is always a good idea to take advice from a coach - they are a fantastic resource and time spent with one will always be time well spent.

Good luck

John


Fri, 01/02/2008 - 5:52pm #2
Sean Nicolle

I agree with John - although my own experience is always to have one per week and try to plan it the day after a hard session.


Thu, 07/02/2008 - 3:10pm #3
Philip Richards

Agree with all the above - the main thing is to allow your body to undergo physiological adaptation to training stimulus as it is during rest time (this includes sleeping) that the body and mind rebuild. Everyone responds differently at different times. For instance, if you are training hard and also under significant stress at work then you will need to allow for more recovery.

Phil.