Rest days

[kdavies83]

With this rainy weather I’m finding I’m eager to get out for my run in the brief dry interludes. I’m just starting week 8 next and just wondering how imperative those rest days are. Would the odd week with 2 runs on consecutive days be alright?

[IannodaTruffe Mentor]

When you run, the impact creates microtears in your muscles, which repair and strengthen on your rest days, not while running. Without rest, repair and strengthening are compromised and injury risk increased.

We are all capable of doing way more than our bodies are conditioned to do, but not without increasing our injury risk. Sticking to gently progressive training plans is the safest way to push our limits, whilst gently increasing our resistance to injury.

Why take the risk?

In the great scheme of things taking a few extra days to complete the plan is a much better bet than risking coming to a halt for days, weeks or perhaps months.

If you want to be the best runner you can be then some non impact cross training will have far greater payback than running every day.

[kdavies83 Graduate in reply to IannodaTruffe]

Great thanks. I just read the after 5k post and saw some tips on there about running every day (or not) too.

[Granspeed Graduate]

We are all rather frustrated by this weather! I stick for sure to at least 1 rest day between runs, even after a year, but don’t forget brisk walking! It doesn’t hurt the legs and does improve stamina while getting us out into the (temporary) sun. I use fast beat music to ensure I don’t just drift along in a daze.... 😄👍

[kdavies83 Graduate in reply to Granspeed]

Oh good idea, thank you 👍

[ACW7]

I’m afraid that due to work pattern (shifts) I sometimes have to do 2 consecutive day runs as I’m determined to complete the programme. However, I do notice that after the second run my body aches more and recovery is longer. 🤔