I took a week off of strength training - here is what happened
Last week, I pressed pause on my usual strength training routine. No heavy lifts. No circuits. No max reps.
Instead, I turned my focus to mobility, and intentional recovery — things that often get pushed to the back burner when you’re grinding hard in the gym or outdoors.
And here’s what happened:
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1. My Body Felt Recharged, Not Weaker
I expected to feel like I was “losing ground,” but I didn’t. My body actually felt more balanced and ready when I returned. Sore joints? Gone. Nagging tightness? Better. Sometimes growth happens when you give your body space to catch up.
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2. I Had More Mental Clarity
Taking a break from the grind gave me perspective. I wasn’t thinking about reps, weights, or progressions - I was just moving to feel better. This mental shift let me reconnect with why I train in the first place: to feel strong, capable, and grounded.
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3. My Lifts Felt Stronger After the Break
After 7 days off from loading weights, I returned to my training. Guess what? My lifts didn’t suffer. In fact, my form felt cleaner, my body more mobile, and my core more engaged. I returned with a more responsive body. Everything felt more aligned. More powerful.
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4. I Remembered the Power of Slowing Down
Slowing down helped me reconnect with why I train — not just to be strong, but to move well, feel good, and stay active for life. It reminded me that progress isn’t just measured by reps or PRs — it’s also built in the quiet moments of rest, reflection, and recalibration.
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What I Did Instead:
• Several 5-10 minute mobility flows spread throughout the day
• Walks outside (barefoot too)
• Light core stability work
Focused on REAL food for real good energy
• Intentional hydration and movement
More time outside: kayaking, paddle boarding, paddle boat rides, swimming, yard games and sports with the kiddos
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Takeaway:
👉 Taking a deload week or recovery block isn’t falling behind.
👉 You will gain longevity, awareness, and strength that lasts.
So if your body is asking for a break…It’s not weakness — it’s strategy. Strong bodies are built on strength and recovery.
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Train Bold. Live Wild.
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