In my experience, rest and recovery is the most underrated and ignored aspects of wellness.
Somewhere along the way, stopping, slowing down, taking care of yourself, and prioritizing recovery has become “uncool.”
Hashtags like:
#BeastMode
#NoDaysOff
#FitnessIsLife
#AllDayEveryDay
#RecoveryIsForTheWeak
#SleepIsForTheDead
#PainIsWeaknessLeavingTheBody
are just a few of the sayings that perpetuate the myth that the only way to get results is to go hard 24/7 and never stop.
This couldn’t be further from the truth.
In fact, the most progress is made when you have the appropriate balance of intense training and rest and recovery. Now I’m not saying that’s easy to find, but it’s definitely possible. You’ll have to do some experimenting for yourself, and also recognize that other life factors such as your nutrition, your sleep, your stress management skills, and your job/family/life also affect how well you’re recovering.
Most important of all, listening to your body is key. If you’re sore all the time, noticing decreases in your strength, feeling unmotivated to go to the gym when you normally enjoy it, or have a “tired but wired” feeling, you’re definitely in need of some R&R.
For more information about rest and recovery, check out these blog posts:
Are There Times To Push It And Times To Not?
The Art Of The De-Load And Listening To Your Body
Reader Question: Am I Overtraining?
