Tip from the DC Road Runners!
Rest Days and Off Days
Many runners will say "on my off day I usually bike or
swim or lift" but don't confuse an "off" day with a
"rest" day. Your rest days should consist of doing nothing but
resting. An off day, also known as a recovery day can consist of running a much
slower pace or cross training with yoga, pilates, biking, or swimming.
Of almost all the sports out there, running is one of
the most demanding sports on your muscles so it's important to give them
adequate time to rebuild before your next workout. Doing too much, and working
out too many days in a row, is not only going to leave you wiped out but your
muscles won't be able to rebuild the fibers you've broken down to ultimately
improve your muscle fitness. There are many things you can do to make the most
of your rest days. In addition, recovering from a long run also includes
what food you put into your body. If you aren't in the habit, start bringing a
snack with you to have in the car on the ride home. It's a good idea to have
something in your stomach within the first 30 minutes of finishing a long run.
You shouldn't feel guilty about taking a rest day
either - you need to listen to your body during the week.
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