Don’t forget about recovery after exercise

Exercise can take its toll on the body, especially if and when it’s strenuous. One common mistake newbies make is not devoting enough time for recovery. It’s common for the body to get dehydrated, causing energy stores to become depleted, and temporary muscle damage and fatigue to set in. That’s why you need to be proactive and take care of your body so it can heal. Here are a few ways to get back to feeling your best after a hard workout:

• Reach for the chocolate milk. Milk is a great choice because it contains protein and natural sugars that help replenish energy stores and encourages muscle rebuilding. There is evidence that low-fat chocolate milk is just as effective as sport drinks.
• Get a massage. Massage is known to increase circulation and detox the body of all the chemicals built up from your workout.
• Stretch. Stretching the main muscle groups increases blood flow and circulation to reduce muscle soreness. Make it fun and try a yoga class.
• Use a foam roller. You can find these at any sporting good stores. Target major muscles, such as calves, quads, hamstrings, glutes, outer thighs and lower back.
• Drink up. Like massage, water is a natural way to detox.

Remember…you only get one bod. Be sure to treat it right!