For most die-hard runners, the thought of taking any days off from running is simply out of the question. And some never do. My own husband has an exercise streak, which includes lots of running, that has lasted for several years. (I’ve lost count on exactly how many he has accumulated, frankly.)
I, too, have been guilty of refusing to rest, especially while training for a marathon. But look where it got me? Sidelined for several weeks while I recover from hip arthroscopy in July.
All of us could use at least one day off from running and other strenuous exercise every week or two to give our bodies a much-needed break and to help prevent overuse injuries.
Even the most elite athletes will factor rest days into their training schedules, although “resting” for them usually means engaging in a lower-impact activity like swimming or yoga, or even weight-lifting.
A day off every 7 to 14 days, the experts say, helps to restore glycogen in our bodies, build strength and reduce fatigue. Studies have found positive effects from athletes who taper from 4 to 28 days before a big race. And those compulsive “Type A” athletes averse to breaks (We know who we are!) have a higher risk of injury than their more relaxed peers, according to a study published in the Journal of Family Practice.
So here’s permission to take the day off. (O.K, maybe not today, on this holiday.)
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