If you’re new to CrossFit or thinking about getting started, there might be a thought that keeps lurking in the back of your mind: “Am I just going to be sore all the time?”.
Good news, the answer to that question is no – with one caveat. To reduce the muscle soreness, you do need to think about recovering well in between your workouts.
Recovery isn’t just for elite athletes; it’s an essential part of anyone’s workout routine. Without proper recovery, your body will struggle with rebuilding itself before your next workout. Over time, your body will continue to break down without an opportunity to rebuild. As a result, you might feel sore (all the time), tired and even run down. That’s not much fun or sustainable.
So, here are a few simple ways to take care of yourself between WODs:
1. Get some sleep.
When you fall asleep every night, your body goes to work repairing any damage done throughout the day. The more sleep you get, the more time your body has to rebuild. So if your current sleep schedule has you sleeping less than six hours each night, it’s worth it to try to bump that up to seven or eight hours each night.
2. Stay hydrated.
Hydration plays an essential role in how well you recover between workouts. Your goal should become staying hydrated throughout the day, including pre and post-workout. If you start a workout already a little dehydrated, then your body is going to have to play catch-up while trying to recover.
3. Eat good foods.
Diets will vary from person to person. However, eating lean meats, vegetables, fruits, nuts and seeds after a workout will promote much better recovery compared to an energy bar. You don’t need special powders or supplements to recover well. Instead, aim for real, wholesome, nutritious foods.
4. Stay mobile.
Mobility and active recovery can help your body get ready for your next workout. Even when you’re sore, moving around can help alleviate some of that discomfort. You can stay mobile using self-massage tools like a foam roller or lacrosse ball. Keep in mind that using these tools might cause some discomfort, but it should never create pain.
To learn more about how to get started with Rhapsody Fitness in Charleston, contact us today.
