Taking a break from working out

[ElTenEleven]

Hi,

I work out 6 days a week, and on the 7th day, I usually just lift weights. I rarely take off from working out at all, but I recently decided this week I would to try and give myself a break, except for light walking and some abs. On a normal day of working out, I a workout at a much higher intensity level. I am about 5'2 and 105 lbs., but as a recovered anorexic (more than 5 years ago), I have a HUGE fear of gaining weight. Does anyone know if this is even possible? I was just curious how often some of you take off for days at a time.

Thanks!

[CHANDLERS WISH]

Don't get obsessive, over "the past", 5 years is along time.

It's like a smoker who gives up, eventually their mind forgets and they don't need nor want one.

Eating correctly, will always keep you in the winning mode of not putting on weight, it's the junk food, the gravys, the butters, creams that help that happen.

Enjoy your exercise for the way it makes you feel, makes you look which again makes you feel great.

You shouldn't ever over do anything and taking a break is perfectly fine.

I believe they say 3 days a week, is sufficient, so take Sundays off and have some "me" time, just for you....

CW

[sourpuss]

I work out 7 days a week as well. On the days I do force myself to take a break, I usually end up going for a hike or something. It's hard to break when exercise makes you feel good and you have a ton on energy. But during your rest time is when your body actually benefits form the workouts, especially weight training. Try taking a rest day the day after weights and just go for a walk or something light. That way your muscles have a chance to repair and build on that day.

[Gemini05]

I agree with Sourpuss and Chandlers Wish.

As long as your eating correctly, you should be able to stay at your size by working out 3 times a week. Go intense those 3 days and pick something fun like the hike, walking etc. to change things up on another day.

I try to work out 3 to 4 days a week intense and then do something with the kids on the weekend that my body hasn't done during the week. SHOCKS the system. Plus its fun then being in the gym all week long.

And you don't want to burn yourself out.