Yes, running has several benefits. It helps you build strong bones, strengthen muscles and whatnot. Runners usually find nothing more relaxing than running to their heart’s content. But should you run every day? The answer is no. You must have heard of taking a rest after running. Similarly, you should also take significant rest before running. The question is, how many days of rest are allowed before you run with full potential?
Let’s see.
How Many Days of Rest You Should Have Before Running?
Just like a coin with two sides, running has certain disadvantages as well. It, for instance, exerts stress on your body. It may also trigger micro-tears and inflammation that need time to heal. Running with no rest leads to severe burnout, general wear and tear on joints and poor sports performance,
Your physiotherapist assesses you and prescribes an optimal number of rest days for your fitness and overall good health. The number of rest days depends on your strength, flexibility, past injuries, etc. So, they may recommend you rest 1 day or four days before running, depending on your health goals and capacity.
Run one or two days a week
Take rest for the rest of the days if you are recovering from an injury. Talk to your physiotherapist for more exercises besides running that will help you recover efficiently.
Run three days a week with alternating days of rest
You should limit running to three days a week if you usually cover shorter distances. This is also the perfect option for those who don’t run often. Low-mileage runners should run for twenty minutes or so three days a week. This gives your body enough time to restore the fitness required to run healthily.
Run four or five days a week with three rest days in between
Professional runners can log 30-50 miles a week. They are familiar with hard training. Hence, they can run four or five days a week with three rest days in between. This boosts your weekly mileage and reduces your injury risk.
The bottom line is to take rest for at least 24 hours before running. Whether you are a professional athlete or an amateur, it is critical to rest before your long run. Refer to the above-mentioned details in case you are wondering how many days to rest before running.
Why rest before running?
Resting before running helps you with muscle soreness. It warms up your tired muscles, thus helping you avoid tight and touchy spots after running. A soothing rest day prepares you for the distance ahead and keeps you active irrespective of the distance you cover.
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