Working out is beneficial for so many reasons. Not only does a consistent workout routine do wonders for your body and physical appearance, but the benefits it can have on your mental health are significant. However, it is imperative that you allow your body to recover after a big workout to prevent muscle strain and possible damage to your body. Whether you’re someone who likes to stick to a strict exercise routine or simply workout when you feel like it, here are five ways to help your body recover after a big workout.
Cool Down
A big mistake many people make is ending an intense workout abruptly instead of cooling down. Cooling down after working out is essential for many reasons, with the biggest being that it allows your heart rate to gradually return to its normal rate and prevents you from feeling dizzy or lightheaded. For example, if you’re working out on a treadmill, be sure to walk slowly for a few minutes before getting off. Your body will thank you later.
Eat a Healthy Snack
One of the best ways you can help your body recover after a big workout is by eating a healthy snack within 45 minutes after breaking a sweat. Doing this will help replenish your muscle energy stores and kickstart the recovery process. When it comes to knowing which healthy snacks to reach for after a workout, it is best to choose something that is rich in carbohydrates and protein.
Stay Hydrated
Staying hydrated is crucial at any point in the day, but especially after an intense workout. When you sweat, your body loses water. If you don’t drink more water to replenish that, you will become dehydrated. When hitting the gym, be sure to bring a big water bottle with you to hydrate before, during, and after your workout, and aim to drink about a half-gallon of water each day to maintain optimal hydration.
Take an Ice Bath
If the idea of submerging yourself in a tub full of ice is enough to make you put your space heater on full blast, don’t write it off just yet. Taking an ice bath is beneficial for so many incredible reasons, especially after a big workout. Ice baths have been shown to have a positive impact on your mood and mental health, help activate the nervous system, and can even aid in better performance while working out. If this all sounds intriguing to you, you may want to start looking for an ice bath for sale.
Allow Your Body to Rest
Allowing your body to rest is one of the most crucial parts of post-workout recovery. After an intense workout, your muscles need time to recover to prevent serious damage to your body and get you geared up for your next day of working out. However, if you’re someone who absolutely hates sitting still and needs to be active every day, you can do light exercises like stretching, walking, swimming, or yoga to keep your body moving.