running question?

Question

if for a week you didn't run as hard as usual but you still ran do you loose anything that you have already built up

Answer 1

It will usually depend how much of a 'base' you already have to start with. Taking a week of easy running to give your body a rest is usually a good idea now and then because you don't want to overdo it. That week of easy running will not effect your performance. I ran cross country and track for 7 years and even now as we did then, I would ease up a few days before the big race to give my body a rest before I really raced hard. Resting gives your body a chance to catch up and prevents injuries. So no, taking that week off is not going to impair your ability to run. It's a smart move, especially if you're feeling tired or just need a bit of a break. It's a great thing to listen to your body!!

Answer 2

Actually, if like most runners(or athletes, period), you don't equate enough rest into your training, the easy week will do you more good than harm, and I would go so far as to say that every 4 or 5 weeks you should have one of those easy weeks on purpose. Not only will it help you avoid injury, but your next weeks training will be that much better.

Also, it would probably take about two full weeks of doing absolutely nothing to "begin" losing what you have gained. Even then you would bounce back quickly once training resumed.

Answer 3

I don't think you'll lose anything...in fact, you may gain something. Most marathon training schedules will have a week every month where the intensity and mileage dips to allow your body to use some of its energy to rebuid and recoup. I've followed training schedules like this for years and they work.

We get stronger with stress + rest. Stress comes in the form of intensity and mileage...rest can come in the form of days off or lower intensity workouts. Rest can also help you avoid burnout and injuries. Check out the "Take a Vacation from Fitness" article on the link below. I hope this helps.

- Mike

Answer 4

Maybe a little bit but as long as you keep running you don't loose a whole lot. It's actually good to take one week a little easier, as long as the next week you start back up again.

Answer 5

No, you don't loose anything. You should just maintain where you are. But not pushing it you aren't moving yourself forward. But, if you have been over training, you could actually be better off after the "light" week. If would give you body a chance to recover.

Answer 6

NOPE as long as your still keeping the muscles active you want be able to tell a difference but while your running when you get close to finish just get in a full sprint for about 40meters to help out also.

Answer 7

i think the next week your speed might drop at little but nothin that much you still ran that week.

Answer 8

not really i mean you don't have to run as fast as you usually do just try to run longer cause that builds your muscles up

Answer 9

Yes, a little.