Been following the shotgun method workout for about 6 weeks now and my body is starting to need more time to recover. do you think i should have a whole week off from my routine and just do light weights just so i am at least doing something?
Do i need a break?
- Thread starter SmithMachine
- Start date
The answer is yes because you know you want a break, but you're just on here for some reassurance. Yes, have a break, but be careful - each day you don't train, you lose 5 pounds of muscle.
Actually, I heard it was closer to 4.956544325960433 pounds..
...depends on which study you read.
Yea if you're body is screaming for a break definitely take it. It's great to follow routine, but when your body is telling you something else else it's good take a little time off.
The body can lie and tell you the truth, and is of great benefit to distinguish which.
When you say that your body is starting to need more time to recover, what are you talking about?
Do you feel tired overall and a lack of energy? Do your muscles feel like their "waxed" or feel like their tired or worn out even after a couple of days rest?
Are you having a hard time progressing in the gym when you weight train (reps not increasing, plateauing on exercises, etc?).
Has your mood or attitude changed? Are you getting sore, but the soreness lasts more than 48hours? Do you feel lethargic, or a lack of motivation?
How is your pre and post workout meals?
How is your water intake and diet been like?
The need to recover (or needing longer periods) can be cause by many factors, one is of course the nature of the training, but it also includes giving the body what it needs TO recover: Or your dietary needs.
I take one week break every 8 to 9 weeks, whether I feel I need it or not. I have NEVER lost a rep, and always seem to come back refreshed when I do. I KNOW a week rest ISNT going to erase over two years of hard work; however, my diet "could" make a significant impact during that week off in a negative manner if I am not careful.
I learned this along time ago (but I am 47), and there is a major difference between an old @ss like me and a 18 to 20 year old, lol.
Basically, what are you experiencing that makes you "feel" you need more time to recover? What are your symptoms? Like I said before, it is important to listen to the signs the body gives, but we must also KNOW when the body is basically a lazy @ss.....and doesnt want to go into the gym, and pound it again.......because it will lie......and tell you the truth.........and let your educated head.....determine which....to make the right decision.
Look at your "total package" of what you are doing, SM. Not "just the training in the gym", when it comes to recovery. It is one factor among many to give some consideration.
Answer my questions.
Best regards,
Chillen
Last edited:
Other long breaks i have had normal are good because i seem to actually grow. I probably train to the point at which the muscles aren't resting enough and by that i meant just time between workouts...altho all i do i the shotgun method 4 days a week, maybe its to hardcore for me lol