Importance of Rest and Recovery

This should be the easy part of our training but it tends to be the most neglected part! Rest is just as important as the actual training itself.

In order to see an improvement in performance, our body needs to be exposed to stresses, (training or exercise), the body then needs time to adapt to the stresses, this is the period of recovery. Rest and recovery are vital in the prevention of injuries.

Important things to consider after training which will improve recovery :

Cool down and stretch
After exercise it is importance to cool down to bring your body temperature back down and also to stretch the muscles that you have worked.

Replace fluids
It is important to replace your fluids after training as you lose a lot of salts whilst training.

Nutrition
It is important to make sure you eat properly after training because this will boost your recovery.

Rest
It is important to put your feet up and chill out!!

Massage or self massage
I would recommend a  regular massage when you are in training however another option is to use a foam roller or tiger tail and do it yourself!! Both are just as good for your muscles.

Sleep
Sleep is essential for your recovery. When we are sleeping our bodies produce a growth hormone which plays an important part in our tissue growth and muscle repair.

Listen to your body
Most importantly!!! If you are tired your body is telling you to rest, so do so!!!