Rest weeks

I am taking the week off from working out.  I generally hit a WOD 5 times a week, with a few missed days thrown in there due to circumstances.  But I haven't taken a long break in more than 3 months - far too long.  I could tell last week that I just wasn't looking forward to pushing myself, that I didn't want to do the workouts.  That's one of the signs of over-training - or needing a rest. 

If you work out 3 x a week, you can go quite a long time without needing a break.  If you work out 4 x a week, I'd suggest taking a break every 3 months - just to relax, renew, get healthy.  And if you hit it 5-6 times a week, I'd certainly recommend taking a break every 7-8 weeks (about 2 months).

Of course, listen to your body and mind - maybe you need more breaks, maybe less.  But take them and don't feel like you're letting yourself down.  You will not lose the gains you have made by taking a week off.  If anything, you'll be able to hit the workouts harder and get better results when your body is refreshed.

Signs you need a break...

Not wanting to workout
Not pushing yourself during workouts / numbers getting worse
Slower recovery
Change in appetite
Change in sleep patterns
Not recovering between workouts
you just know you want / need a break

Remember - rest is good.