We’ve all missed a workout before but when it comes to building muscle and staying in shape – is the old adage true that if you don’t use it, you lose it? While it’s important to rest, it can be a lot harder to bounce back from a break the longer you wait. According to studies, strength loss occurs after about two and a half to three weeks of inactivity for most people. Cardio conditioning falls faster but is easier to regain than muscle strength. Consistency is especially important if you’re new to exercise but thankfully, these new habits make it easier to retain strength. Experts suggest tips for staying strong during downtime, including performing light cardio, incorporating resistance training and eating right.