Time off.

[Mase33]

What is your opinion about taking a week off from training every 3-4 months?

[stpete]

I think it's an individual decision. For me, i often take time off whenever i feel i need to. But that being said, if you workout 3-4 months straight with no break other than your normal "off days", i would think that you'd be ready for a break.

[Gaspari1255]

I always wanted to do this, but I am just too stubborn, lol. Only time I will take a few days off in a row is when I am really sick.

[reardbandit]

If you are lifting at max effort (such as in a western periodization plan) then you need to take some time off from time to time. As a general rule, when my clients come out of a max effort time period, I have them take some time off, anywhere from a few days to a week and a half, depending on their recovery abilities, experience, whether or not their using gear, etc. It's a good idea not only physically but for your CNS as well.

[T-MOS]

i believe taking some time off every now and then is GREAT!!!

especially in between changing up routines

[Mase33]

I think im going to take some time off. Especially since i have been fighting a cold for the past 2 weeks.

[StritationOrBust]

When you get to know you body reallly well you can just tell when you'd benefit from an extra long break. And how long that break should be. For me its ussually more like 4-5 days though.

[reardbandit]

Speaking of breaks, I think I am going to take one over the next few days. My back is on fire from doing deads and I haven't slept hardly at all. I think I need a little siesta! I just bought some Powerblocks to put in my gym though, so I am pretty excited, can't wait to use them.

[SuperLift]

I took a week off because i was staying sore for way to long.. When I came back I felt refreshed and I was noticeably stronger.