Rest is a vital part of staying fit. It sounds strange, I know. But when muscles are used excessively they become too tired to work properly, causing you to either stop making progress or start to backslide. I think that might be what's happening to me.
In my book, Conditioning For Dance, the author, Eric Franklin, suggests a full two- to three-week break, two or three times a year. The body makes good use of this time by recuperating.
I don't think I've taken a break for that length of time since I started ballet again. I had short periods of rest here and there, mostly from minor injuries. I think they usually lasted from about half a week to one week. Once the spring semester of school ended I dove right into my newer, more rigorous training schedule.
When I got sunburned a few weeks ago I didn't dance, but I don't think it was an adequate break. It didn't last long enough, plus my body was working to heal the damage from the sun. I came back feeling strong, but that didn't last. Last Friday, Saturday, and Monday were bad days. I felt like I had to drag myself through my routine, and I was a sloppy mess. My body was trying to tell me something. Right now just sitting here typing this, I can feel fatigue in my muscles.
Today I've decided to take two week break from ballet. I can already predict the worries I'll have about losing what I've gained. But it seems that If I don't lay off for a little while that's exactly what'll happen. I'll try to enjoy it and keep busy doing other things. I hope this will be what I need to stop this downward spiral.
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