Every 8–10 weeks I take a whole week off from training and any type of strenuous exercise. This gives your body a mental and physical break and allows you to recuperate fully. This rest week will also keep you motivated, as you will notice that when you come back to the gym you will be a lot stronger and mentally focused as you find yourself itching to get back into the swing of things.
I know it can be hard sometimes to take a week off when you feel you have great momentum but it is very important to allow your body to have some rest even if you feel that you do not require it. Your body will thank you for the extra rest, and you will find that you are physically and mental refreshed after a week off.
You should not neglect your diet during this period, however; maintain a regular clean nutritional plan during the week off to feed your recovering muscles. Unwind, relax, and enjoy the time off.
A week off can do wonders for any nagging little pain you have picked up along the way and also be beneficial to your immune system which is also stressed during lack of rest.
Don’t be afraid: you won’t lose any muscle. If anything, you will lose muscle if you over-train and never give your body a break.