I've been hearing a lot lately about taking a week off from exercise every six weeks; deemed a 'recovery week' to give your body adequate rest and prevent overtraining. Has anyone done this?
I want to take a week off (and probably should) but I'm afraid that I'll lose any gains I've made in the last few months from trying to achieve some sort of decent fitness level. I'm scared I'll lose muscle or worse yet - gain weight. Are my fears completely irrational or justified?
I have the same irrational fear and have for the last 11 years- however, NOT resting leads to injury and burnout. If you feel like you NEED to take some time off, you probably should. Personally, I think a whole week every six weeks is too much, but every 10-12 weeks, 5 days or so is a good idea.
You won't lose muscle or gain weight. Eat sensibly and don't make it a free for all food week and you'll be fine.
I agree with Mel ... I usually take a week once or twice/year, not on purpose sometimes but my body just tells me I'm tired and I usually get lots of sleep that week ... I've never noticed any muscle loss as a matter of fact I feel rejuvinated and I'm stronger when I get back at it...
Recovery week - good or bad idea?
... I usually take a week once or twice/year, not on purpose sometimes but my body just tells me I'm tired and I usually get lots of sleep that week 
... I've never noticed any muscle loss as a matter of fact I feel rejuvinated and I'm stronger when I get back at it...
