Rest days

[Clugg]

I get the need for a new runner to have a rest day between each run, so we can grow stronger by allowing our bodys time to heal. I was wondering though if anyone did exercise that wasnt running on their rest days. I'm looking for inspiration as this is something I'm looking to do. 😎

[Loudrury Graduate]

Hi Clugg,

On my rest days I usually do weight based classes (pump) at the gym followed by either yoga or pilates. I have been doing these for several months before I started C25K and think they really helped with building strength and muscle.

[Clugg in reply to Loudrury]

Thanks Loudrury, sounds interesting. I like the idea of building strength ☺

[Oldfloss Administrator Graduate]

How long have you got...

Many, many of us have routines for rest days.. Swimming, cycling, Yoga or Pilates; walking, climbing, A day in the garden.. weather permitting.. a blitz on the house work... strength and flex works well in conjunction with C25K

nhs.uk/Livewell/strength-an...

Stamina and strength exercise are useful too as the runs get longer.. I have a stamina routine I use regularly

And.. no harm in a real rest day too, when needed.. body and soul need to recover

[Clugg in reply to Oldfloss]

Thanks ☺

[IannodaTruffe Mentor]

If you read the guide to the plan healthunlocked.com/couchto5... it explains, along with many other things, that non impact exercise on your rest days will make you a better runner.

[ju-ju- Graduate]

It’s a great opportunity to do some strength work or different activities. You have to see what works for you. Like running I would say build up gradually 😺

[Clugg in reply to ju-ju-]

Hi Juju, Oldfloss posted a link to nhs/livewell strength and flex podcasts, I think i'm going to give those a go in between my C25K running days, they seem to be aimed at building up gradually so I'll see how I get on and report back

[ju-ju- Graduate in reply to Clugg]

Good plan

[Elfe5 Graduate]

Hi Clugg, I give myself variety using Pilates, cycling and walking on my rest days - although not all three on the same day!

[bigjimmy in reply to Elfe5]

Is it a rest day if you are exercising?

[Clugg in reply to bigjimmy]

Hi bigjimmy, a rest day from running is probably the more accurate description

[bigjimmy in reply to Clugg]

Hello Clugg.

Yes I know what you mean, try taking one or two days off per week though, it does the body good.

[Clugg in reply to bigjimmy]

Will Do, thanks for the advice

[Elfe5 Graduate in reply to bigjimmy]

Ha! Yes it is - just a rest day from impact exercise really, so the micro tears in your muscles can repair before your next run.

However, it is a good point - ianodatruffe says that it is good for runners to take a week off altogether every few months. 😄

[bigjimmy in reply to Elfe5]

Couple of days off per week is good and yes a week off every so often let's your body repair big time. ☺️

Have a great day Elfe5 .