So, if you've spent any time in your life on an exercise program, you've probably heard that you should have some designated rest days. These days are supposed to be times for the muscles to heal from all of the damage that you've unleashed upon them. Perhaps they are intended as a special time for self-reflection and stretching, or maybe a leisurely walk around the block. Any runner will tell you that rest days are an integral part of any good training program. However, ain't nobody got time for that!
I don't think I've had many intentional rest days. They usually come as a result of injury, extreme weather conditions, or sheer boredom with a training plan. The countdown on the race calendar does not stop while you take a break right? Wrong. My body is dead. It decided at some point last week that it was just over me and all of the things that I wanted to do. What's that Natasha? You'd like to run hill intervals, lift heavy and then go to the pool for some laps? I'll show you! So now I'm sidelined with my back and hip hurting, bunion throbbing, and eyes rolling cause I need to get back to it. I didn't feel so good on Saturday so naturally I thought it would be a good idea to run 8 miles at dawn on Sunday morning. The run was amazing! The cold that I have now, not so much.
Listen to your bodies people! Your body always knows what it needs. I know that Rome was not built in a day, but I am always afraid of losing momentum. I'm afraid that 1 day off will turn into 100 and my motivation will be lost forever. (Also, the way I eat, exercising is really not optional!) Tonight, while I take my NyQuil shots and groan in bed, I will be secretly plotting my next escape to the trail or the gym or the pool. I'll just have to wait another day or two.
Happy Resting!
Natasha
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