I had two days off of crossfit this weekend, and when I returned yesterday I felt great. I was able to grind out 18 reps of a deadlift that only a few months ago would have been my 1RM! I’ve been working pretty hard lately and have not been feeling 100% at most WODs. Going into Friday’s WOD I was tired, sore and concerned about hurting myself. I had to take it easy rather than push myself because I was concerned about injury and I just didn’t have the mental strength. Mental endurance is an undervalued skill in Crossfit. I still performed decently, but I know I could have done much better.

It is important to know when to push yourself, when to coast, and when to rest. I’m trying to stick to a 2 on 1 off 3 on 1 off schedule as best I can, so that my body has enough time to recover and get stronger. Lately I have also read that it is beneficial to take a easy week or rest week every couple of months. I am going to try to take an easy week at the end of this month, right before the crossfit open starts.

I’m looking forward to my rowing class tonight, and then an easy rest day before I begin my heavy crossfit days.

-Brian