R+R

Rest and recovery are two words I know I struggle with when training, particularly when I have my sights set on a new goal. However, rest days are essential to productive training, allowing your mind and body time to fully recover and grow. You are setting yourself up for a physical breakdown and increasing risk of injury without proper rest. Additionally, you become more prone to a suppressed immune system, a decrease in strength, increased stress, fatigue and lack of quality sleep. 

Not to mention, I know when I've been away from my workouts for a few days, I am mentally more excited to get back in and kill it. Give yourself permission to take full rest days. They are one more way of taking care of your body, just like a gym session or a kale smoothie.