Days of Rest

Rest days are typically very important in the life of an ectomorph as the previous post suggested. I, like probably most others, struggle with getting enough. The guilt of not working out or the thought that muscles will be to degrade if not pushed often. However, as I battle those thoughts after resting I never lose the strength that I had when I return to the gym. In earlier years of lifting I ignored the signs my body was giving me for needing rest but now I know when it's time to chill.

For me the most prominent sign is the results of the last workout performed. Your not quite focused, the intensity is not there, and you just don't have the up tempo mentally to give it your all or you struggle to meet the reps expected. Time to take a break. On top of it all, if my carbs have not been at a level they should be it is even more of a struggle.

Bottom line, listen to the body and REST whenever possible. The physique doesn't disappear over night or even if you take a week off.