Days of rest...

[becksbinks]

Hi, just a quickie for the more experienced runners out there...i need to take a day of rest now as have run today. But due to 'life committments' i can only run on a tues thurs and sat. Will it make a difference starting a new week after two days off each time?? I intend to do some form of exercise...even if its just walking the dog each of these days but i wont have time to commit to a run...

[BettyJane Graduate]

Sounds Ideal to me. Pretty much what I did, Those 2 days rest before starting a new week are a good idea, you'll be starting each week fresh and rested.

[Oldgirl Graduate]

Many find it easier to work in running days on certain days of the week which will give you 2 rest days, thats not a problem and in fact some would find it beneficial. You just have to do what fits in best with your lifestyle and home schedules. Good luck with the programme.

[GoogleMe Graduate]

3 runs a week with at least one non-running day between each, what's not to like?

[canuckgirl Graduate]

I wouldn't put myself out there as an experienced runner (still learning) but the way that life worked out in my final weeks of the programme I frequently had 2 days between runs. I found that it gave my body more time to rest. I plan on continuing running Tuesday, Thursday and Saturday as this works best in my schedule.

Good luck!

[Indi57 Graduate]

I'm not an experienced runner either, I run Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays and always have 2 days rest at weekends. I find it sets me up for the next weeks running. You are running three days a week that's a great. Good luck with your progress.

[oona Graduate]

I've just started on W9 and have decided to take 2 days rest most of the time now as I feel so much better with an extra day now the runs are longer. I also go to Curves and I'm going to concentrate on toning rather than aerobic when I go there as I don't want to lose any more weight (never thought I'd say that!). I'm also aware I don't want to risk an injury by overdoing things as I'm in this exercise for the long run(!).

[vixiej Graduate in reply to oona]

well done for reaching your target weight!

[oona Graduate in reply to vixiej]

Thanks, vixiej! I've been about 1 to 1 1/2 stone overweight most of my adult life and having had a hysterectomy 3 years ago was warned that I would find it even more difficult to lose weight (what with hormonal changes too!). So extra special pleased to shift the extra weight at the ripe old age of 51! Good luck for your personal targets, vixiej!

[vixiej Graduate]

Definitely enjoy the additional day off, as everyone said, it will give you more energy for the next run and running 3 days a week is a great way to maintain overall health and fitness.

To reinforce the good habit/behaviour it should fit in with your life, if it becomes difficult to slot in then it could start to become a chore and the downward spiral begins. By having that extra day you are getting the balance right for you and setting yourself up to enjoy your running.

[Beads Graduate]

I run (usually) on Wednesday, Friday and Sunday, so your run intervals sound great to me. Also go to Curves like Oona between times.

[mark909 Graduate]

Yes 2 days are fine. Once you get you distance up you should be okay to take 7 days off without losing your fitness. I think it you were to have more than 2 weeks off though it might be a bit of a set back.