Workout muscle recovery

Accelerating Workout Recovery

After an intense workout, your body sends clear signals: aches, stiffness, and maybe even a wobbly walk. These signs say, “Hey, it’s time to rest and recover!” To start with, let’s break down why your muscles ache post-workout

1. Microscopic Damage: When you exercise, especially with resistance training or high-intensity activities, your muscle fibres experience tiny tears. These microscopic injuries trigger an inflammatory response.
2. Inflammation: The body’s immune system kicks in to repair these micro-tears. Inflammation occurs as white blood cells rush to the affected areas. This process is essential for muscle growth and adaptation.
3. Lactic Acid: Contrary to popular belief, lactic acid build up isn’t the primary cause of muscle soreness. However, during intense exercise, lactic acid can accumulate temporarily, contributing to that burning sensation.
4. Delayed Onset Muscle Soreness (DOMS): The real culprit behind post-workout soreness is DOMS. It typically peaks 24 to 72 hours after exercise. Factors like eccentric movements (lengthening of muscles during contraction) and new or intense exercises play a role.
5. Fluid Shifts: Intense workouts cause fluid shifts within muscle cells, leading to swelling and discomfort.

But the good news is that these aches are also a sign that your muscles are adapting and getting stronger.

Here are some tips to speed up the muscle recovery process.

1. Stay Hydrated: Hydration is key. After sweating it is always important to replenish with water. Hydration flushes toxins and prevents muscle dehydration. Dehydrated muscles can quickly turn into painful muscles.

2. Prioritise Sleep: While science is still unravelling the exact link between sleep and exercise, one thing is clear: Sleep matters. Sleep deprivation negatively impacts both performance and recovery so make sure to prioritise those Zzz’s!

3. Nourish with Balance: Eating well fuels the recovery process so it is important to aim for a balanced diet:

• Fruits and Veggies: Load up on these nutrient-packed foods. Try and eat lots of different colours of food and vegetables as all of them contain different vitamins and antioxidants that our bodies need. 
• Cut Processed Foods: Minimize processed junk; your muscles will thank you later.
• Nutritional supplements: Nutritional supplements help to enhance your health in many ways like energy boost, stronger bones etc. They are meant to complement our diet and not to replace it.

4. Harness Anti-Inflammatories: Products with anti-inflammatory properties can ease soreness and speed muscle and joint health recovery. Try our Healthy Joint Bundle to help ease inflammation and give you an energising boost!

5. Massage Magic: A massage helps break down scar tissue and soothes muscle pain. Massages can also promote blood flow; increased circulation can speed up muscle recovery. Regular massages can help reduce muscle fatigue – Our Turmeric Massage Oils are the perfect solution with the anti-inflammatory benefits of Turmeric blended into a warming massage oil.

Remember, these tips provide your body with the recovery tools it craves. The sooner you bounce back, the sooner you’ll crush those fitness goals! 🏋️‍♂️💪

Note: the above article is for information purposes and is part of the natural remedies to common problems. If you have specific concerns or persistent health problems, please contact your GP.