I usually start each Wednesday with an advanced yoga flow class at Yoga Nine. Today was no exception. However, what was different was a noticeable dip in my energy level. Every limb of my body felt heavy. Yoga can be an excellent way to energize the body. So, I went despite the heaviness. After 60 minutes, the heaviness remained, but I did feel looser.
Laurie, my yoga instructor, led us through a variation on a Tripischore yoga series, which includes postures for lengthening and balance. This series is usually one of my favorites, but today triangle was torture. Warrier I and II fought me. Forward bend was more like failure to bend. I muddled through, as best I could–concentrating on my breathing, hoping that it might lend me some energy. No luck. I wondered how I would complete my triathlon training for the day.
My training plan listed the following workout for today: 2400 meter swim (RPE4) and a 30 minute easy run. Seriously? On any other day, this workout would actually be a light one, especially given the low exertion levels. Today, however, I wondered if I could complete it. So, I decided to do something I rarely do. I listened to my body and took a rest day.
I hate to deviate from my training plan. Why? I don’t know. Every major book I’ve read on the subject says that we need to be somewhat flexible with training plans because, well, life happens. And, I agree that it’s okay to deviate from the plan – but I rarely do that to rest. I do, however, deviate to add another mile or a few more meters. That practice has probably contributed quite a bit to my depleted energy level.
I’ve read many articles and books that discuss the importance of rest and recovery, but that philosophy is not one that is readily accepted by a culture that privileges more. We work more hours than we used to to earn money to purchase more stuff that we don’t need to put in bigger houses that go well beyond our basic shelter needs. I run, swim, and bike more than my training schedule indicates so that I’ll be stronger, faster, better on race day. Yet, “more” does not always equal better.
So, today, I rest. But, I can’t promise I will do it more.
