6 Workout Recovery Tools

After an intense workout, it’s important to help your muscles recover as quickly as possible. There are a number of different tools and methods you can use for this, from massage to meditation. Here are six of the best muscle recovery tools out there.

6 Workout Recovery ToolsFoam Rolling: Roll over your sore spots to relieve tension and stimulate blood flow. Breathe deeply: If you’re wincing and panting, you’re rolling too hard. (Learn more at “ On a Roll .”)

Static Stretching: Static stretches are best following a workout to cool down and unwind, or during the day as desired, after a dynamic warm-up. Breathe deeply, easing yourself into each stretch on the exhale for 30 seconds to two minutes. (For stretching ideas, visit “ Smart Stretching .”)

Cold Therapy: You can use the chill to increase circulation by immersing yourself in an ice bath, taking a cold shower, or slipping into a cryotherapy tank cooled with liquid nitrogen. (Learn more at “ Expert Answers: Cold Conditioning for Athletes .”)

Massage: A professional massage can help ease muscle tension, improve circulation, reduce inflammation, and provide comfort through touch. (Learn more at “Mmm, Massage: Surprising Ways Massage Heals the Body and Mind.”)

Yoga: The one-two combo of deep breathing with body-awareness-building postures (asanas) is a powerful relaxing, focusing, and mind-clearing tool. (For recovery-focused yoga poses, visit “Yoga for Athletes: There’s a Pose for That.”)

Meditation: Meditate solo or choose from a variety of guided classes, online and in person, to lower heart rate, improve focus, and alleviate stress. (For tips on beginning a daily practice, check out “Beyond Meditation.”)

If you’re looking for a way to speed up your workout recovery, or just want to take some time out for yourself, give one of these tools a try. We promise they’ll help make your muscles feel better faster. And if you need a little more convincing, all of our massage therapists are highly-trained and certified in the latest techniques. So what are you waiting for? Give us a call today and book an appointment for some much-needed R&R. 614-604-6358