We all know that continuous exercise in the gym could make one fatigued, tired and dreary. This is one reason why you need to take a day-off from your routine no matter whether you are a cardio enthusiast or pump iron regularly. Your body needs to recover and recuperate from the stress and strain. And a rest day is the reward you need to give to your body for helping you keep up with your fitness goals. In fact, it is only in-between your workouts (while your body recovers) that you build those envious muscles.
Spending hours at the gym may cause mood swings, especially in beginners. That s why a rest day is all the more important to avoid symptoms like uneasiness or weakening of muscles. Not taking a break may result in loss of interest and you might drop out of the fitness program eventually, explains fitness expert Neeraj Mehta, director of GFFI Fitness Academy.
So, whether it is your rest day, a day-off or a break, as you wish to call it, we don t mean you become a couch potato and binge. There is a sensible way to enjoy your break, which will help your body to recover and rejuvenate your spirits. Here are tips from fitness expert on how to spend your gym day-off:
Stay away from the gym: Yes, strictly stay away from the gym on your day-off. You body needs rest and give it the required TLC by staying away from the dumbbells and the machines.
Try a different routine to keep your body active: While, you are resting you can still keep your body active by doing some light exercise like walking. But remember, this doesn t mean you walk on a treadmill. Take a leisure walk in the park instead enjoying the nature and breathe in fresh air. Remember this walk is more soul enriching than calorie crunching.
Reconnect with friends: If you are too committed with your gym workouts, you are bound to miss out on socialising and networking. So use your rest day as the opportunity to reconnect with friends, pals and also peers to get a fresh perspective about life out of the gym.
Play a sport: If you are into one, it is great to spend some time improving your skills and sweating it out in a fun-filled way. If not, meet like-minded people and try playing badminton or cricket on this day to keep fit and build sportsmanship spirit. Clean up your badminton rackets, find that old cricket bat kept in your cupboard, long forgotten and hit the grounds.
Walk your pet: You a pet owner? Then what better way to keep yourself active than walking your pet?
Spend time with family: If you have kids go out and play with them this will help you bond better with your family and make you an active participant in parenting (this is more for men who complain that lack of time hinders bonding).
Try yoga: Yoga isn t for everyone. But if you have been a yoga enthusiast then practice yoga while on a break from gym routine. Yoga is the most peaceful, calming and soothing of all activities. Stretch, take deep breaths and get rid of all stress.
Your mind, your spirit, your muscles and your will power play the role of the initiator and inspire you to do good at the gym. It s important to give them their due on a Rest Day.
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