Taking time off? How much? How often?

[Gladiola]

I know it's good to take some time off from training - but how much time off & how often?

Every now & again I'll have maybe 4 days with NO exercise (cardio, yoga, lifting) - but the last time I had more than that was like 1.5 years ago when I had my tonsils taken out. (2 weeks of NOTHING - doc's orders)

How often do you take a break & for how long?

 

[FitFossil]

My normal workout schedule is M,T,Th,F so there's lots of built in rest. I also end up taking a week every 3-4 months due to vacation/holidays, etc. Our vacations are usually pretty active, skiing, hiking, etc. but rarely any weight training.

I do miss the gym routine, but the time away always does me good. If I get to feeling antsy, I can always do some pushups, crunches, go for a run.

Even on my regular schedule, if I ever don't feel 'right', I take the day off w/o guilt. It'll most likely mean an even better workout next time.