During a workout, tiny tears are created in the muscle fibers. These tears cause muscle soreness, also known as DOMS (delayed onset muscle soreness). While it may seem counterintuitive, these tears actually help the muscles grow stronger.
When you rest, the body uses this time to repair and rebuild these damaged muscle fibers, making them bigger and stronger.
But rest days aren't just about muscle growth. They also give the body time to recover from the physical stress of exercise. This means you'll have more energy and focus for your next workout, which can help you perform at your best.
So, how many rest days should you take? This will depend on your individual goals and training program. Taking at least one full day of rest each week is recommended, but some people may need more or less depending on their fitness level and the intensity of their workouts.
In conclusion, rest days are essential to any resistance training program. They give the body time to repair and rebuild muscle fibers and recover from the physical stress of exercise. Make sure to include rest days in your training schedule to optimize your results and stay healthy.