We all know that if you “feel the burn”, you’ve probably had a successful workout. Feeling the strain or walking with a limp for days later isn’t ideal though, and can leave you regretting your jaunt to the gym.
We’ve pulled together some top tips to help you soothe your muscles post-workout:
Stretch it out
The practical advice of stretching your muscles before you work out is essential for keeping your body limber, but did you know it’s all about the timing? Stretching ‘cold’ muscles can lead to injury. Instead do a light warm-up before doing some stretches.
The same principle applies to ‘cooling down’. Post workout, be sure to take 10minutes to properly relax, stretch and lengthen tight muscles.
Stop Off For a Brew
You had better pop on the kettle. Research proves that drinking coffee before and after a workout reduces muscles soreness and fatigue.
With the extra hit of caffeine, you’re sure to add some endurance to your training in the meantime!
Is it hot in here?
Heat therapy and warm temperatures can increase blood flow to sore muscles. Feeling the effects of a hard workout? Soak in a hot bath, or if the pain is central to one area, apply a heat pack directly to the spot. Keep the heat directly over the troubled area to help ease the tension or invest in a heat pad to stick on under your clothing.
Fishing for benefits…
Omega 3 fish-oil pills have been proven to ease inflammation according to the Clinical Journal of Sports Medicine. Take one pill a day to reduce soreness and swelling post-workout. It’s believed that omega 3s, which can be found natural in salmon, oily fish, spinach and nuts, may help boost circulation to sore muscles while also working to reduce inflammation in the area.
With a cherry on top…
Cherries are so much more than a tasty treat! Adding cherry juice to your post-workout recovery can ease muscle soreness. Antioxidant compounds found in tart cherries called anthocyanins are believed to work by reducing inflammation. Try drinking tart cherry juice on workout days for less pain and inflammation!
Euromedic is Ireland’s leading provider of Medical Scans. Located in Dublin, Cork, Kilkenny, Sligo and Belfast Euromedic Ireland offers fast and affordable medical scans with results within 48 hours. They have also just opened in Dublin City Centre at The Meath Primary Care, Heytesbury Street, Dublin 8. So why wait for a scan? Book yours now at www.euromedic.ie or LoCall 1890 400 444.
