November 2020
How many times have we heard the saying “no days off”? Well I have! As a competitive swimmer I was programed to work hard and push through even if that meant no days off. In order to have a competitive edge we were told to swim year round with no vacations or breaks. We even practiced twice a day
Well, after a few cortisone shots, a shoulder surgery, and having to retire from competitive swimming due to my shoulder injury, lets’ just say I learned my lesson on why recovery days are so important.
You may of heard the words “Active Recovery” and “Exercise Recovery”. What do they mean?
Well, Active Recovery means: a low intensity type of exercise, some examples:
- Walking
- Biking
- Yoga (I like to do Yin Yoga for my active recovery days)
- Light swimming
Exercise Recovery means: NO physical activity
- REST DAY
What I have found works best for me and my training programs is one active recovery day and one full rest day per week. I have seen great results by following this protocol. Keep in mind that everyone is different and has their own methods but this is what works best for me!
Some things that can happen without giving yourself recovery days are:
- Over use of the muscles (which I experienced first-hand)
- Potential Injuries (which I experienced first-hand)
- Potential Performance Plateau
*All can most likely be avoided by following the right program that fits your lifestyle and by taking recovery days!
Think about this:
*MUSCLES GROW WHEN YOU ARE RESTING
Think of your body as a machine, if you do not take care of it the correct way your body will not achieve it’s maximum potential!
A few more important things needed to be the best you can be:
- Proper amount of water intake
- Proper amount of sleep
- Proper nutritious food intake
- Stretching
- Active Recovery/Rest days
Let’s be the best version of YOU!
