Rest week - lose any muscle?

[Josh81]

I have been working out for 3 weeks and im taking a rest week as I heard it helps prevent plateaus and I have a lot to do this week.. will I lose any muscle ( and strength ) If I still eat 150+g protein and 3k+ cals a day?

[M12]

I dont think so.. im no expert myself and im trying to find out stuff like that aswell. However i think that if you stick to a high protein diet then you wont really lose anything. Its only 1 week so id think you would actualy gain muscle if your resting them and stick to high protein. Thats if you worked out properly the week before.

anyway i could be wrong.

[Shortyflex]

Technically it's impossible to stop lifting and permanently maintain your muscle size and strength, so yes theoretically you will deteriorate, but the differences will be negligible at your level, no offence intended.

On a side note, you really dont need to worry about hitting a plateau 3 weeks into training, unless you have a ridiculously poor central nervous system.

[nutsy54]

For all practical purposes, you won't lose any muscle mass after only a week if you continue a proper diet. It's likely you'll actually see a strength increase in the gym, because your body had a chance to completely recover and heal itself.

[Vakas]

3 weeks and you're having a break? Nah, try 3 months man.

[hardwork 24/7]

To be honest I dont think u'll need top eating 3000 cals a daywhile having a rest as you wont be burning many calories anyway. You could still include protein in your diet but I suggest u should only eat protein until u feel your muscles are not sore! Excess protein will store as fat just like any other macronutrient. It is good to have a week off as you will recuperate and become stronger if you have worked your body hard enough!