A Change of Pace
Well I have been lifting heavy..8-10 rep sets now for a few months. As my friends here know, I was definitely showing the classic signs of overtraining. First off…I lost weight and lost my appetite. This of course turns into no energy and poor performance. But I am one of those stubborn people who continues to try. Next , I feel the old heavy legs feeling. Shame on me for getting to this point! I learned all about this in my personal training course! So the answer lies in rest..which I did. I took a few days completely off. Now it’s time to change up my program. So I will be spending the next two weeks circuit style whole body work. This will include hitting all the major muscle groups with more reps and medium weight. I have progressed with much more success the past year by constantly changing my routines. This also includes adding recreational sports into it for the fun and cardio of course. The body adapts to stresses placed upon it, so I need to plan out farther and get ready to keep it cycling!!
May 15, 2008 at 10:11 am
Great blog and excellent example of taking responsibility. You know, physical training can be as addictive as any function…drugs, alcohol, cheesecake.
The key as you found was moderation through rest. And kudos to your friends for advising you. They are truly special indeed…just as you are to us. Keep us informed on the circuit training. And don’t let anything dull your wonderful exciting spirit. Harris
May 15, 2008 at 6:39 pm
Amy,
Way to focus! Knowing when you need rest is key….. taking the time off is the challenage! I’m like you and so many others…. hate to rest when the Iron is calling. Keep on Keepin!
Real Men Have Mass!
May 15, 2008 at 8:46 pm
I agree with Bill and Chop. Rest is key, thats when the real important "Behind the scenes" stuff happens.
May 17, 2008 at 9:58 am
I know the feeling of overtraining… I myself need to take a break as well, it’s hard to mentally do that but I know in the long run it will help me… Good Luck!
May 17, 2008 at 5:12 pm
A change of pace once in a while is a great thing. Rest is also a majorly overlooked thing. A couple weeks with a new routine will do you wonders.
May 18, 2008 at 9:01 pm
We change the routine every 4 to 6 weeks. I don’t like it because just as I start getting used to it we change–but that’s the point LOL Good luck and have fun, and remember to rest.
May 20, 2008 at 10:54 am
i always friggin do that! i think i can only recall really ONE time ever that iw ent, "oh i’m overtraining, i think i’ll stop for a day or two." i felt so smart!
and rock on to changing the routine. i never do the same exercises but i like my split so well that i can’t bare the thought of changing that!!!
keep kicking butt you look great!
May 20, 2008 at 2:17 pm
I only suggest heavy training for 6-8 weeks in the 4 - 8 rep range, before you take a week off(got to let the joints catch up) then off to a different style of training. Sounds like you found out the hard way. Anyhoo, you’ll get there, patients