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Hey there Reader

I know what you’re thinking—rest days feel like wasted time. If you’re like most runners, the idea of skipping a scheduled run makes you anxious. But here’s the truth: rest isn’t lazy—it’s a performance booster.

Why Rest Days Are Non-Negotiable

Every time you run, your muscles experience micro-tears. That’s completely normal. But real strength and endurance gains happen during rest—not the workout itself. This is when your body repairs, rebuilds, and comes back stronger.

Skipping rest? That’s a fast track to overuse injuries, burnout, and plateauing progress.

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Three Key Benefits of Rest Days

• Injury Prevention – Overtraining is one of the top causes of running injuries. A well-timed rest day keeps you in the game longer.
• Muscle Recovery and Growth – Strength isn’t built during workouts; it’s built when your muscles repair and adapt on rest days.
• Improved Performance – Runners who prioritize recovery come back faster, stronger, and more energized.

How to Rest Like a Pro

• Take at least one full rest day per week—more if training hard or returning from injury.
• Active recovery counts. A short walk, yoga, or mobility work keeps you moving without overloading your body.
• Listen to your body. If you feel sluggish, sore, or your pace is suffering, that’s a sign you need more rest.

Want to Return to Running Stronger Than Before?

If you’re recovering from an injury and unsure how to balance rest with training, my Return to Running Program takes out the guesswork. You’ll get a structured plan to help you safely build back miles—without fear of reinjury.

My Favorite Products/Resources

(THIS POST PROBABLY CONTAINS AFFILIATE LINKS. OUR FULL DISCLOSURE POLICY IS REALLY BORING, BUT YOU CAN FIND IT HERE.)

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The Best Barefoot Shoes for Runners and Life My favorite shoes and the company that I recommend over and over again

The Best Pelvic Floor Health Products Use code Abby26 for a discount on all products

Hope you had a great time and found something useful! I'm here to help!

Keep Running!

Doc Abby

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​The Runner Doc​

Helping you stay injury free and on the road (or trail) running!

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