5 Ways to Relax Your Muscles After a Tough Workout

Working out (and working hard) is just part of the girl’s soccer lifestyle. And really we can’t complain, cause there’s no better feeling than finishing a really tough workout. Well, that is until the day after a really tough workout. Though we all have the best intentions when it comes to working out, sometimes the side effects can leave us with all sorts of aches and pains.

We’ve put together the best ways to relax your muscles so that you can get back in the game!

Take an Ice Bath

We know, these don’t sound fun, but the truth is they’re often the best thing for your muscles after a workout. In fact, jumping into an ice bath for a quick 10-minute soak can significantly reduce muscle soreness and might even be better for you than simply resting is.

Stretch it Out

While stretching is extremely important before your workout, it’s equally as important after your workout. Implementing an extended stretch routine following a workout can help reduce the effects of all your hard work. Stretching before bed and when you wake up will also help keep your muscles loose and increase the range of muscle motion around your joints.

Hydrate

As important as it is to hydrate during a workout, staying hydrated after your workout will help prevent cramping and decrease inflammation. While sports drinks may market themselves as the best choice for you, nothing can beat water, especially if your workout involves heavy sweating. However, if you do choose a sports drink, you will want to make sure you keep it low-calorie, otherwise, you’ll be adding back all the calories you just burned.

As an alternative there’s always chocolate milk. The yummy, creamy drink has been proven to rebuild and refuel muscles after exercise, researchers report. The combination of carbohydrates and protein in low-fat chocolate milk appears to be “just right” for refueling weary muscles.

Use your Sore Muscles

That’s right, you read correctly. The day after a tough workout, try to find ways to use those same muscles in a non-resistant way. This will help stimulate blood flow, loosen up any sore muscles, and decrease any pain you might feel from your workout session.

Get a Massage

A good massage is always one of your best options after a tough workout. It can help release any tension you might have in your muscles and can help melt away any stress you might’ve built up in your body, as well as your mind. If you’re unable to get a massage from a licensed massage therapist, foam rollers are a great alternative to help relax your muscles and stretch them out to relieve tension.

As important as it is to regularly workout, it’s also just as important to relax afterward. Your body needs time to recover and rest, especially after a tough workout. Even making time to lay down and meditate is beneficial. Do this and you will reap the rewards.

Photo via Adobe Stock @kues1

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