Layoff time from gym questions

[coltrane]

Guys, been a natty all my life.  16+ years lifting, and can't remember taking more than a week off ever. 

Thinking about taking 2 weeks off as i feel like i'm overtraining  (low sex drive, tired etc)

How often do you guys recommend to take off at one time, and what type of diet (generally) and will this possibly increase my test levels/sex drive?

Thanks

[Bluto]

i usually take time off when im on a vacation or if im sick or something that usually adds up to several weeks per year + off-days on holidays like christmas, new years, birthdays, partying etc 

[Rimbaud]

Learn to listen to your body. It'll tell you when you should stop & when you should return. Shit I worked some half midnight shift last week & it threw my sleep schedule all off (into this week). I went to the gym on Monday & that kicked my ass until today.

[Permabulker]

Learn to listen to your body. It'll tell you when you should stop

You will know....... 

[pumpster]

2 weeks is nothing after such a long period of training, it's the best thing to do. Won't affect anything that can't be regained in in a week or two, and is good for the nervous system. Should restore some energy that's been diminished from the constant grind and make workouts after you resume more productive. You could even take 3 weeks.

As far as the diet to use, doesn't matter for that short length of time.

[leonp1981]

2 weeks is fine.  I usually take a week or 2 off every 3 months or so, depending on work and stuff.  It gives you a good chance to recharge.  I usually use my time off to put together a new workout plan, switching my training days around, then when I start back up I've got extra motivation.

[coltrane]

thanks guys... lots of info.

I'm taking off until december.  I hate that notion, but am really going to just not go.  Hopefully my sex drive revs back up.