Recovery Time is Crucial

Many people start a new exercise regiment with the new year. A change in exercise or increased activity can lead to injury and tends to break down muscle fibers. Rest allows muscles to recuperate and emerge stronger. Safe exercises and movement are encouraged, but the appropriate amount of exercise, followed by recovery leads to an ongoing cycle of improvement over time. Strength and endurance will improve, creating a foundation for long-term health.

It doesn’t matter if you want to reduce body fat, improve strength, increase flexibility or simply feel better; the first step is to determine the correct intensity and duration of exercise. The right combination combined with recovery will help you reach your health and fitness goals.  Unlike bones and joints, muscles have a great deal of blood supply. Muscles can regenerate and respond quickly to the demands of exercise.

Typically, resistance training (using weights or one’s body weight) tends to be a high-intensity exercise and helps build strength. Conversely, aerobic exercises like walking, cycling, and swimming tend to be lower in intensity. They improve cardiovascular endurance and reduce body fat. In either case, it’s important to allow the body to rest and heal.