I know what caused it. It's the school run! I have to take my youngest son to school every day. And since I do this running alongside him, while he rides his bike, my running frequency went up.And then somehow I decided I had to run on Saturday morning too. Because then I could have a big bag of cheetos without the guilt.
All those days of running almost add up to a so called running streak. If it weren't for Sundays. Because those are my rest days.
Still I wondered: 'Running every day, is that okay? '
So I decided to do some research!
Running every day: is that okay?
When you're a beginner the advice is very clear: do nót run every day. Give your body a chance to recover from your efforts. Running 3 to 4 times a week is best.But how about when you've been a runner for years? Even then giving your body a break is important. In fact, allowing your body regular days of rest, will make you a better runner.
The rule of thumb is:
If you're a seasoned runner, 1 or 2 days of rest are enough.
Besides, your body wÃll start sending signals if you're asking too much. You'll get sick more often, and you'll become more susceptible to a common cold. You may also start having trouble sleeping, and your heart rate will be up. Even if you're sitting on the couch.
Perks of rest days
- Taking a day off prevents a mental (running) burn out
- Your muscles get a change to stock up on glycogen
- It's nice to have day off
- Your body will get stronger and fitter
Why rest days are so hard
- Feeling out of sorts. Like something is missing!
- Feeling cranky
- Fear of never starting up again after one day of rest
Summing up
As a beginner you should definetely nót run every day. But if you're an experienced runner it's alright. As long as you take it easy on rest days. Do some yoga, or go for a walk, if you can't help yourself.
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6 comments
Impressed! I'm still working on getting motivated to run more, not less! :)
I can't run more than 3-4 days a week otherwise I get injured :/
I admire your energy and ambition! I think if running so often feels right for your body then you must be doing something right :)
I've run 5-6 days a week most of the time, but lately, 4 days a week. It's great that there are so many different ways to enjoy running and that it can fit most everyone's schedule.
In this day and age of obesity, cancer and heart disease, your persistence is admirable and sets an example for others.
I've just recently started running and find trying to do it everyday bores me. I do much better if I run a few days, maybe ride my bike a day or two or take a class. But out of all of that I always feel the best after a run!
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