The Importance of Rest and Recovery
WHY SHOULD REST AND RECOVERY BE A MANDATORY PART OF THE PLAN?
Lack of recovery can become an injury, Dehydration, Physical injury, and Overtraining syndrome. The challenge of rest for athletes accustomed to being busy and on the go is that rest can feel inherently wrong.
Physical Daily Recovery Techniques
- Heat – increased blood flow, hot tub, heating pad, sauna/steam, red light therapy
- Cold – decreased blood flow, decreased inflammation, ice, ice bath, polar plunge, cryo Myofascial Release – foam rollers, balls, graston, massage therapy,
- Yoga postures Acupuncture/acupressure Chiropractic
- Compression – HyperIce/Normatec, socks, sleeves
Physiological Nutrition Daily Recovery
- Recovery drink chocolate milk or endurox or others
- Anti-inflammatory diet, pre/probiotics Omission of highly inflammatory foods and omega 6’s Vitamin C, E Herbs and spices – turmeric, garlic, horseradish, cumin, cinnamon, star anise,Tart Cherry, glutathione, NAD+ Glutamine BCAA Topicals, magnesium
By prioritizing both physical and nutritional rest and recovery strategies, you can optimize your performance, prevent injuries, and unlock your full potential as an athlete.