Sometimes, you don’t workout for a little while (for me it’s usually when exams crash down on me) then when you get back into your routine… you over do it. That would be my current situation. I’m the type of person who puts my mind towards something, and I go at it 1,000% (yep… a lot), until I achieve it. That can be a good thing don’t get me wrong…but when it comes to getting into a workout routine it’s important to gradually get back into it (or just start slowly if it’s your first time), so you don’t get so sore it keeps you from doing what you really want to do. You can over-do it by using too much weight (I used the same weight I was using before I stopped for a few weeks), or by working out everyday while you’re motivated.

Long story short  This leads me to what I intended this post to be about… rest and recovery. When you workout, you’re actually breaking down your muscles; therefore, if you’re over training/aka not resting, you will plateau and will stop seeing results. It’s during rest and recovery when your body will actually re-build and develop the gains you have been working towards.  It’s important to listen to your body, and if you think it needs rest.. rest! I recommend 2 nonconsecutive rest days per week.

Now they don’t have to be complete rest (unless you think you need it). You can still be productive by doing a low-intensity yoga workout, a (15-20 min) stretch routine, and roll out your muscles -I usually try to stretch and roll before bed on most days of the week. If you’re not familiar with a rolling workout routine, check out this video from the Tone it Up girls and here is their stretching routine to give you some ideas if you need some! Also, try (VERY HARD) to get at least 7-8 hours of sleep, and drink an extra glass of water (or two) on these rest days to further help your body recover.

Mat: TJ MAXX // Foam Roller: link
Yep.. some quality stretch time in my closet

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Happy Hump Day!
Amanda