February 9, 2021 5 Tips to Rejuvenate After a Tough Workout

There’s nothing quite like a good workout. The list of benefits goes on and on: from better moods to higher energy, lessening the risk of disease, better sleep, increased libido…need we say more?

But while going hard at the gym for a couple of hours is great, one of the most important facets of your exercise regime is consistency.

You can maintain a regular exercise schedule by making sure that you take the time to let your body recover after every single workout. Plus, when you take time to reward yourself with a little self-care after some hard work, you create a connection in your brain between exercise and relaxation…which may motivate you even MORE to stay on your workout game!

 

Treat yourself

One of the best ways to finish a workout? Give yourself a sweet treat (it can be savory too). Exercise will activate your hunger, and you can fuel your body by deciding to treat yourself! Munch on a few squares of dark chocolate to give you a little dose of sugar post-workout and get your daily intake of antioxidants. Can’t get enough of smoothies? Prepare one before your workout and pack it with vegan protein, fruits, and greens to help with recovery. 

For a quick burst of energy, there’s nothing better than bliss balls, otherwise known as energy balls. You can throw anything you like in them: dates, nuts, seeds, coconut, peanut butter…maybe even some chocolate chips? Looking for inspiration? We can’t get enough of Mylene and Virginie’s recipe from their Instagram account, @lfit_virgmyl! 

 

Get a Spa Treatment

Stiff, sore muscles got you down? Remedy this by bringing the spa to you with at-home spa products. Use our sister brand’s Magic Bag hot/cold compresses to soothe and relax sore muscles after a long run or workout.

For double the relaxation, be sure to check out our aromatherapy line. Breathe in the calming scent of lavender to help induce feelings of peace and relaxation. From mittens, to face masks, to soft slippers and neck wraps, we have everything you need for a restorative at-home spa night post-workout. 

 

Soak in the Tub

A good bubble bath is a treat all on its own, but to take your soak to the next level we recommend an Epsom salt bath. Epsom salts help to reduce lactic acid build-up from working out, and works wonders to relieve sore and tired muscles. 

Make sure to set the scene. Grab a book, put on your essential oil diffuser, and pour yourself a nice cup of tea before climbing into your warm bath. We promise you, you won’t want to leave!

 

Use Compression Socks

There’s a big misconception out there that compression socks are only used for medical reasons. We believe they should be in every athlete’s self-care box!

When you put on a pair of compression socks during or after you work out, you get access to a whole host of benefits, such as reduced swelling and soreness, as well as better circulation in your legs and feet.

By easing post-workout pain, compression socks will help you stay on track with your fitness schedule. Say goodbye to skipping workouts because you’re just so sore. 

Did you know Supporo actually has an entire line of compression socks specifically designed for sports? They’re made from a proven weaving technology with high-quality fabrics and feature comfortable seams, so whether you’re running or lifting, these socks will be your new favourite workout companion. 

 

Take a Nap

If all else fails…sometimes all you need is a good power nap. After all, you’ve just done a strenuous workout, so if you’re body’s craving some rest, why not give it what it needs?

A quick power nap will help your muscles recover faster, as well as lower your blood pressure, which often increases as your heart rate jumps during a particularly challenging workout.

Just make sure not to oversleep, or you’ll find yourself feeling groggy throughout the day or even having trouble falling asleep at night. The sweet spot for power naps is about forty minutes, giving you just enough time to catch up on your z’s without messing up your circadian rhythms. 

There’s nothing more important than taking care of YOU. Especially during the COVID-19 pandemic, we must pay extra attention to both our physical and mental health. A solid exercise routine can help you on both of these fronts, but it’s important to remember not to train too hard without making ample time for recovery.

Push yourself, and then reward yourself for your efforts. Soak in the tub, grab a face mask, or crawl into bed for a quick nap…whatever your body is telling you it needs at that moment. 

When we learn to tend to our needs, we’ll be able to avoid injury and keep up our energy and motivation for our workouts!