Should you take it easy?

So you had a series of challenging workouts. Good for you! But how do you know if you should continue or take a break? Sometimes our bodies say one thing, while our minds say another. Here’s how to make an informed decision:

Do any of these scenarios sound like you?

• You’ve “pushed through the pain” for a couple of days in a row.
• You can’t remember the last time you took a day off.
• You’re sick from the neck down.
• You can barely walk without experiencing pain.

You might feel guilty for taking a break, but don’t feel guilty. Your body needs time to heal. Then you can get right back in the saddle. You might consider taking a hot bath or getting a massage. Both can help loosen muscles so that you can return to the gym feeling reinvigorated. Meditation is also a great technique. Many find it helps them recover faster. Also, don’t forget to drink plenty of water. Hydration is key to recovery.