After 5 months of hard training since last break, I took 2 weeks off not by choice, but because I got finger tattoos (well I guess by choice). First week I came back I got a little weaker, 2nd week set pr's across the board and broke plateaus. My conclusion, rest works for me. However, i was getting aches and pains so my body was telling me it was ready for a break. Everyones different....age, genetics, training, diet all play a big part. Just listen to your body.