You know those times when you're just a little overwhelmed, tired, in the middle of some hard training and you'd really love to take some time out to catch your breath and remember what it's like to smell the flowers again? It seems like a dream at times, and the thought of just doing nothing has unusual appeal to Type A personality athletes. Well be careful what you wish for or it might come true. I remember a similar feeling myself one time...and then my appendix ruptured and I was forced to take some time out!!!Taking a time out is great for the body and soul at any time, but is best done at a time of your own choosing rather than when you're forced to...like my appendix episode, or an ill-timed injury. Knowing and choosing when to take time out is the key to your longevity as an athlete, let alone as a spouse, parent, worker or any of the multiple other roles you fulfil in your life.
A time out differs from a rest / recovery period, which is characterised by simple adjustments to your training workload. A time out involves taking yourself away from routine for a physical, mental, emotional and possibly geographical break from what you're used to. A time out mainly consists of a change, and a step back from what the rigor of training. Many normal people would call this a 'holiday', but since athletes struggle with that concept - often mistaking it for a 'training camp' - it needs to have it's own definition and identity, hence a time out.
There's no formula for when to take a time out, how often or for how long, but usually the timing is obvious...but only as long as you are in tune with how you are feeling, inside and out. The trick is being objective enough to see that you are in a rut and need a 'circuit breaker' to reset things, and recharge your mojo.
Often it is the people around you who can see that you might need a time out, even if you don't or can't, which is often because you, yourself, are so wound up that you can't see the forest for the trees. It can be a vicious cycle with a downward spiral trajectory that you may not see yourself falling into, so keep an ear open for any little comments from others to you that might suggest the need for a time out.
The benefits of a time out are simple - you recharge your batteries, refresh your motivation, update your perspective, and most importantly, remember what is really important to you and why.
Don't be afraid to step back and take time some out as and when you need it - it could be the best thing you do all year, not just for your sport but your life. The key is knowing when that time and occasion it and not leaving it too late.
