3 RECOVERY METHODS TO TRY AFTER YOUR NEXT CLASS
Proper recovery is a necessary element in achieving your personal martial arts and fitness goals. Even though recovery plays a significant role in the quality of your training, it’s something that’s often overlooked.
The time and effort you put into a recovery routine are just as important as the classes you attend. Why? Because your body needs time to rebuild and repair. Without proper recovery, you might experience a decrease in motivation, show signs of overtraining, increase your risk for injury, or begin feeling bored or burned out.
Your sleep, nutrition, and hydration habits all play a role in making sure you’re recovering well. Here are a few recovery methods to try after your next class:
1. FOAM ROLL
Over time, small adhesions can begin to form in your muscles. These knots cause muscle soreness and affect how well you’re able to move both during your classes and workouts. A foam roller can promote and improve your mobility by targeting the knots and adhesions in your muscles. Use a foam roller to roll out your major muscle groups gently. You might be uncomfortable, but foam rolling should never be painful.
2. STRETCH
Another excellent recovery method that goes well with foam rolling is stretching. Foam rolling targets and improves joint mobility while stretching can increase your flexibility. Improved flexibility can help you maintain and improve your body posture and alignment. Post-class is the best time to stretch because your muscles are warm, and you’re less likely to pull or stretch a muscle too far.
Photo By Nate Chinchilla
3. TAKE AN EPSOM SALT BATH
While the research behind using Epsom salts for muscle recovery is still unclear, there is some evidence that suggests its usefulness. Epsom salts contain magnesium, an essential mineral that can aid in muscle recovery. A warm Epsom bath is relaxing, and it has the potential to decrease muscle swelling, reduce stress, increase circulation, and even improve mood. If anything, soaking in a warm tub can be a relaxing way to recover after a tough workout.
Systems Training Center offers a variety of fitness and martial arts programs for adults and kids. To learn more about what we have to offer and how to get started, contact us today.