Thread: 1 or 2 weeks rest

i don't believe in taking 2 weeks or so off, unless you are very overtrained. you have to lift after about 4-7 days, depending on your muscle fiber make up, or you'll start to atrophy of muscle fibers that are not damaged a nd need no further overcompensation. better would be to alternate between highly and low traumatic workouts and not get overtrained in the first place.

Cytrix, you're a big Hatefield fan eh.

Instead of taking time off, I'd just reduce the workout volume or intensity.If you do decide to take time off, 1 week should be more than enough.Maybe throw in some active recovery during this time(hiking,rock climbing,etc.).

Training only 3 days per week will allow you to be fully rested after 1 week. Just curious though...why do you feel you are ready for a rest? Do you schedule them periodically or are you mentally or physically burnt out?

Originally posted by ballast
Instead of taking time off, I'd just reduce the workout volume or intensity.

I don't agree, If his instincts are telling him that he needs a break then I would take the break. Some of the best results come fom a person not following the norm and listening to their own bodies. Unless you are nursing an injury, a week off is plenty.

I think taking a week off is great. Two weeks might be a bit long. I guess it depends on how long it's been since you've taken a break.

Like the others said, only take the week off if you feel you need it.
I don't beleive you have to take time off UNLESS your body's telling you its time for a break.

I feel I need the week off, its been about 6-8 weeks since my last break. I have started feeling a little soreness in my shoulders and a little less recovered between w/o's. I think I'll just stick to 1 week off................Thanks, Mike

I agree with Scotty, only rest when your body tells you. When I do rest it's for a week, tops