Week Off needed

maxattack · 08-13-2007, 08:41 PM

Well, before starting a new program (still undecided on what, btw) I'm gonna make myself take at least 5 days off to refresh and heal up some. My knees, neck and right foot have all been giving me a little trouble recently as well.

I very rarely take time off from the gym, I just usually back down a little for a week between routines, and do the exercises I enjoy the most (nothing structured). So this is relatively new to me.

If I have been in the process off tryng to add lean mass with a calorie surplus, and ramping up my metabolism(g-flux). So, how far should I reduce my calorie intake during my time off? Maintenence level or slightly more?

Also, does anybody have suggestions on some low impact activities/exercises or mobility exercises I could do, besides strecthing? I already have a good strectching routine.

JoshDunn · 08-13-2007, 11:42 PM

Drop back to maintanence as your won't be burning off extra calories from training. Since you haven't taken a week off in a long time its likely that you'll grow during that time off anyway so take it easy on the food.

Walking and doing general activity isn't go to kill you during this week so keep up something that you like.

Any mobility drills from magnificant mobility of inside out would be a great choice apart from those DVD's i'm not sure if you can find some mobility stuff on the net as i've never looked.

Frank.S · 08-14-2007, 12:35 AM

Dont forget taking a mental break too. Sure your body needs a break, but so does your mind. If you countingy cals / macros, I would stop for a week and just "guess" and eat what you approx think you should be. ive seen it many times where people take a week off, but are still not refreshed and ready to go because in a sense, they never really took a break. 1 week is nothing, it will probally do you good.

maxattack · 08-15-2007, 12:16 PM

Thanks for the replies guys. I never really thought about the mental break as well, you bring up a good point.

I find it tough sometimes to live a healthy lifestyle and eat right without being too overly obsessed with the details like my diet. It's a fine line to walk especially when in the process of trying to add lean mass. I will do my best to follow your advice and act normal!

Missing the gym like crazy though and it's my third day off, can't wait to start lifting again.