Regular physical activity is extremely important for both physical and mental health, but many people have a hard time staying consistent with it, partially because exercise just burns them out. Sometimes, it simply doesn’t feel worth it to commit to that challenging workout, because you know you’re just going to be exhausted for the rest of the day afterwards. However, if you’re familiar with some of the best ways to help your body recover after each exercise session, it can make the entire process a lot more enjoyable. Next time you hit the gym or go for a run, consider trying one of these methods to improve the way your body and mind bounce back.
1. Hydrate Yourself
When you participate in an intense workout, you’re undoubtedly going to be breaking a sweat. Typically, your body loses a significant amount of fluids during exercise, and both during and after your workout, it’s important to replenish them. Staying hydrated after exercise improves muscle flexibility, reduces soreness, and helps you build strength. Try to drink at least 16 ounces of water, or at least another healthy drink, after your physical activity.
2. CBD Products
CBD, or cannabidiol, is a chemical extracted from the marijuana plant, but doesn’t have any intoxicating effects. It does, however, have many positive effects on the mind and body, including the ability to help with workout recovery. CBD products can help reduce the soreness you feel in your muscles after exercise, allowing you to bounce back more quickly for your next workout. Additionally, CBD products have a wide variety of other health benefits as well.
3. Eat Something Healthy
Having a nice healthy snack after exercising, whether it’s a protein shake, fruit, veggies, or even nuts, will help replenish your muscles and get the recovery process started. Additionally, as long as what you’re eating is relatively healthy, it should also help your energy level bounce back so that you can take on the rest of the day.
4. Take an Ice Bath
Many athletes take ice baths after intense physical workouts, as they have been shown to help reduce the symptoms of muscle soreness that come after exercising. Granted, ice baths aren’t for everyone, as they certainly aren’t the most pleasant experience. However, if you’ve had a particularly vigorous workout, jumping in one for 5 to 10 minutes may be worth a try.
5. Get Extra Sleep
Much of the tissue growth and repair that your body does takes place during the hours that you’re sleeping. This is why it’s especially important after significant exercise that you’re giving your body enough time each night to do what it needs to do. If you get a good night’s sleep after a workout, not only will you be likely to feel more energized and comfortable the next morning, but your muscles will also recover quicker, and you’ll get better results from the exercise that you’re doing.
If you find yourself struggling to bounce back after you exercise, it may be that you just need to put a little more effort or thought into how you recover. Consider trying out some of these tips, and see if you start to get better results going forward.
