Why Rest Days Are Important

Rest days are just as important as exercise! Taking regular breaks in your fitness regime allows your body to recover and repair. It's a critical part of your progress, regardless of your fitness level; here is why:

  • Allows time for recovery – Rest and recovery days give you time to heal from the stress you place on your joints and muscles whilst working out, and it is important to relax and rejuvenate your body. To make the most out of your rest days, you could do low-impact exercises such as yoga or walking. These activities will help you stay active but will also allow your body to rest and recover.
  • Reduces risk of injury – When your body is overworked, and in need of rest, you will be more likely to fall out of form or make a mistake. Therefore, resting is essential to help prevent injuries and working out safely.
  • Prevents muscle fatigue – Exercise depletes your muscle's glycogen levels. Our muscles need glycogen to function, even when you're not exercising. If these stores are not replaced, you will more than likely experience muscle fatigue and soreness. 
  • Supports healthy sleep  – While regular exercise can improve your sleep, taking rest days is just as helpful. Exercise increases our energy-boosting hormones known as adrenaline, and constant exercise will overproduce these making it hard to get quality sleep.

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