I used to get caught up in the idea that if I stop swimming for one day that I would “lose it.” My coach has taught me that this is not the case, and actually, rest is a very good thing. While it is true that when you are intensely training, one recovery day as opposed to two days rest is better (getting in the pool and doing shorter yardage). A day of doing nothing helps the body and the mind reset. So for all you hard core athletes, take some time to rest, relax and appreciate what you were able to do during the week.