A deload week is when you take a break from working out. It can literally be 7 days or shorter. This week of no working out or lower exercise volume can offer several benefits for both physical and mental recovery.
Think of it as a pit stop in your fitness journey. Any fans of F1 here?If you are, you know that it’s the pit stop strategy that can make or break a race!
Here are four benefits and outcomes of deloading:
- Reduces the risk of injury: Regular exercise puts stress on the muscles, joints, and other tissues in the body, which can increase the risk of injury over time. By taking a break from working out for a week, you allow your body to recover and repair any damage that has been done, reducing the risk of future injuries.
- Improves performance: Think of it as deloading before reloading. During a deload week, your body has a chance to recover and recharge, which can improve your overall performance when you resume your workouts. By allowing your body to rest, you give your muscles and other tissues the opportunity to repair and grow stronger, which can lead to improved performance over time.
- Reduces mental fatigue: Exercise can be mentally taxing. It actually increases your stress levels, especially if you are following a strict training program or have specific performance goals. Taking a break from working out for a week can help reduce mental fatigue and provide a mental sabbath from the stress of exercise, allowing you to return to your workouts feeling refreshed and motivated.
- Prevents burnout: Overtraining and burnout can occur when you push yourself too hard without allowing adequate recovery time. Taking a break from working out for a week can help prevent burnout by allowing your body and mind to recover, reducing the risk of mental and physical exhaustion. This can help you maintain your motivation and enjoyment of exercise over the long-term.
Overall, taking a deload is a strategy for long-term sustainability to keep exercise a life-long part of your lifestyle.
Message me if you want to know how to incorporate a deload week to your workout program.