Run Fitness Decline and What to do about it
- Taking time off to rehab an injury or take a break won’t make you suddenly out of shape.
- Understanding how quickly you lose run fitness is important.
- Run fitness can decline after just a few days of inactivity.
- After a week of no running, there may be noticeable decreases in cardiovascular fitness and running economy.
- It may take a few weeks or even months to regain previous run fitness levels.
- Consistency is key to maintaining and improving run fitness.
- Cross-training activities can help maintain fitness during periods of rest or injury.
- Gradually reintroducing running after a period of rest or injury is important to avoid injury and maintain progress.
- Listening to your body and respecting the recovery process is crucial.
Trifindr’s hot take:
While it’s important to take breaks and allow time for injury rehabilitation, it’s also vital to understand the potential impact on run fitness. Taking even a few days off can lead to declines in cardiovascular fitness and running economy. However, with consistent training and cross-training activities, it is possible to bounce back and regain previous levels of fitness. Gradual reintroduction of running and listening to your body’s cues are key elements to a successful recovery.
Original article:
https://www.triathlete.com/training/how-quickly-do-i-lose-my-run-fitness/