Recovery days - you need them

Yesterday was my weekly planned recovery day and it was great to support the local running club hold their monthly time trials.

Watching the runners giving it their all reminded me how much effort goes into (especially high intensity) training and the resulting accumulation of fatigue.

Recovery days and recovery weeks are essential for reducing the build up of fatigue, allowing the body to recover and adapt.

These periods of recovery are where your fitness gains develop. Other benefits of planned recovery include reducing the risk of; injury, over-training and mental fatigue. Get recovery right and you will be both physically and mentally ready to give it your all in the next training block. Resist the temptation of skipping recovery days, leave your shoes in the cupboard, your bike in the garage and put your feet up.