Rest

Wow!! Intensity, consistency and now REST.  Yes, rest is also an important part of a fitness program.  Now please don't run to your rooms this weekend, grab a bag of chips and a gallon of sweet tea and sit on the sofa watching Jersey Shore and say Charlie told me rest is important.  I am talking about active rest.

I want you to workout with intensity, and I want you to workout consistently, however, your body needs recovery time.  If you are working on a strength program and are lifting heavier weights with lower reps and heavy weights, you may need to take a 2 - 4 minute rest between sets.  If your program is designed more toward hypertrophy (don't be lazy, look it up) or endurance you may want to take a 30 second to 1 minute break between sets.  I know, I thought you were talking about rest.  I am, this time in between sets is needed for your muscles to recover and be ready to perform the next set.  Most of the ladies I see in the weight room take 4 - 5 minute breaks between sets while they; A.  Text, B.  Gab, C. Watch Jersey Shore, D. All of the Above.  Again, please refer to the intensity blog.  Taking that much time is hindering your workout.

Days of rest are also important, but that does not mean do nothing.  Active rest is a better way to keep your body moving while it has the chance to recover for your next intense workout.  Go for a walk or a bike ride.  This is a beautiful time of year.  The temperatures are pleasant and scenery is wonderful.  Hike some of the local trails.  Instead of attending a wild party at JMU, continue on 33 East to Sky Line Drive and explore some of the hiking trails there.  Play a little tennis or play catch with a friend.  Enjoy whatever activity you choose.

Even squirrels relax once in a while.  Did you know the hibernating arctic ground squirrel is the only warm- blooded mammal able to withstand body temperatures below freezing?  Rest and relax squirrels it's the weekend.  If you want something to do, come out and support the Fighting Squirrels this weekend.  The soccer team has games on Saturday and Sunday.  Both games start at 1 PM.  Even a hibernating squirrel is awake by then.