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What Happens When You Take Off From The Gym

Thanksgiving is a big travel week for many of us, and with traveling typically comes some days off from working out. And while it may be a hard pill to swallow, taking a few days off (or even taking the entire week off) is actually really, really good for you.

If you love working out, rest days can be torturous. Trust me, I get it. But you’re not doing yourself any favors working out every single day. I’ve been working out pretty consistently for about 10 years, and last year I decided to take an entire week off for the first time in my life. It was really f’ing hard because I just love the gym too much. But man, it was extremely beneficial…

For me, the biggest takeaway was how I felt coming back. After taking a full week, I was worried that coming back into the gym would feel really difficult, but my strength actually increased! My muscles were fully rested for the first time in probably ever, and I could really tell the difference.

The other major takeaway for me was how I was able to mentally “reset”. Being in the gym almost every day, doing the same movements over and over, it becomes routine. After a week off, my mind-body connection became so much stronger, and if you’ve ever played competitive sports before, you’ll know what it feels like to be in the zone- and that’s exactly how it felt.

Now, do you need to take a full week off? Absolutely not. If you’re taking at least 2 days off per week, you’re in a good place, but I highly recommend taking a 4-5 day break every once in a while (if not a full week) to physically and mentally reset.

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About Matt Rosenman

With over 15 years of experience in health and fitness, Matt Rosenman is the expert voice behind cheatdaydesign.com. Matt’s philosophy is simple: no foods are off-limits, and a healthy lifestyle shouldn't be complicated or restrictive. As a certified personal trainer with a bachelor’s degree in Health Behavioral Sciences, Matt brings well-rounded expertise to his blog. From revamping classic recipes with a nutritious twist to debunking health myths, he guides his readers through the maze of fitness fads with science-backed advice. Featured in major publications and with a strong following on social media, Matt is committed to making “healthy” uncomplicated—proving there's no need for a cheat day when you’re enjoying delicious, better-for-you meals every day. Join Matt on his mission to simplify health without sacrificing flavor. Learn More