Rest Days Aren’t Optional, Here’s Why

Running can be a transformative addition to your life, but it’s essential to balance effort with rest. Overdoing it can lead to injuries that might derail your progress and sap motivation.

The Role of Rest Days

Rest days aren’t just for when you’re feeling tired, they’re a fundamental part of becoming a stronger runner.

Why Rest is Important:
Running stresses your muscles, joints, and connective tissues. Rest days give your body the time it needs to repair, rebuild, and grow stronger.

How Many Rest Days Do You Need?:
Beginners should aim for 2–3 rest days per week, especially in the early stages of building a routine.

Recognising the Signs of Overuse

Sometimes, enthusiasm can lead to pushing too hard too soon. Keep an eye out for the following signs:

Persistent soreness or tenderness that doesn’t subside after a day or two.
Pain that worsens during runs or doesn’t ease with rest.
Extreme fatigue or a lack of motivation to run.

If you notice any of these, it might be time to reduce your training volume or take additional rest days.

Managing Minor Aches

Not every ache signals an injury, but knowing how to handle discomfort can help prevent something minor from becoming serious.

Ice for Inflammation: Apply ice to sore areas for 10–15 minutes to reduce swelling.

Gentle Movement: Light walking or stretching can ease stiffness.

When to Seek Help: If the pain doesn’t improve with rest or interferes with daily activities, consult a physiotherapist or doctor.

Stretching and Mobility Routines

Including stretches and mobility work in your routine can prevent injuries and enhance recovery.

Before Your Run: Dynamic stretches like leg swings, walking lunges, and arm circles prepare your muscles for movement.

After Your Run: Focus on static stretches, such as hamstring stretches, calf stretches, and hip flexor stretches, to release tension and promote flexibility.

Don’t Forget the Foam Roller: Foam rolling can relieve muscle tightness and improve circulation, aiding recovery.

Balancing Work and Recovery

It’s tempting to push through discomfort, but learning to listen to your body is key to long-term success.

Adapt Your Plan: If you’re feeling unusually tired, swap a run for a rest day or a light walk.

Celebrate Rest Days: Remember that recovery isn’t slacking off, it’s an essential part of training.