I finally understand the rest days!: Maybe... - Couch to 5K

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I finally understand the rest days!

CrimsonMama profile image
5 Replies

Maybe because the runs are longer now in week 6/7. As I wanted to get out everyday in the early weeks I did the program 3 days a week, but still went out for 'freestyle' walking and jogging the other days. I thought it improved my fitness so what was the harm?

But after hurting a muscle in my thigh last weekend and resting extra this week I did week 6 run three and actually felt stronger for the rest.

This has actually helped me also get a bit better balance in my life. Now I have allocated some study time on my rest days so I get to work on getting a better paid career in the future. I still do other exercise, swimming once a week and aerobics and some walking (not running) on my treadmill. The aerobics is a high-intensity 15 mins home session and really helps strengthen my core.

And weird thing? I always hope/aim to lose 2lbs a week weight but since doing less I am losing 3lbs a week the last two weeks?

I read somewhere that if you don't rest your body is too busy trying to heal over burning fat?

I don't know. All I know is it's ok to rest! Which doesn't negatively affect your fitness nor ability to burn more calories and gives a better all round life balance!!!

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CrimsonMama profile image
CrimsonMama
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5 Replies
SlowLoris profile image
SlowLoris

Not sure what freestyle walking is but jogging is definitely running so can't be used as cross training.

CrimsonMama profile image
CrimsonMama in reply toSlowLoris

Lol freestyle is when I just listen to my body and brisk walk if I want to and then jog a little if I get the urge. I would aim for 2 miles daily whether that was mostly walking or not. Gradually I would jog more than walk.

SlowLoris profile image
SlowLoris in reply toCrimsonMama

I know that feeling. When I go for a walk I always feel like running.

UnfitNoMore profile image
UnfitNoMoreGraduate

The urge to run comes every time I walk, so I only walk now in shoes I can’t run in!

CrimsonMama profile image
CrimsonMama in reply toUnfitNoMore

Wow that is actually superb advice!!

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