Taking time off can actually be hugely beneficial. “A healthy lifestyle is one that includes rest and enjoyment,” says Dr Oluwajana. “Overtraining or not taking rest can actually limit your progress. People who train regularly, whether it’s cardio or strength training, do need weeks where they reduce their training load, volume or intensity so the body can reset before starting another phase of training. Often it’s a great idea to synchronise that with a week off of work or on holiday.”

Even if you’re not getting away but are just busy, tired or stressed, taking a few days off is normal and necessary. Even if you need longer off, say for an injury that requires a few weeks or months to heal, you shouldn’t feel guilty for what our body needs. You can also find other ways to be active and feel good so that going back to your training isn’t a complete shock to the system.

“If you’re worried about taking time off, you probably should look at why you’re exercising in the first place. A week off isn’t going to have a significant impact on the 52 weeks of work you put in, just as one week of working out won’t hugely impact how much you can lift or run,” reminds Dr Oluwajana.

What happens when you take time off from the gym? The truth about losing strength and fitness during a break