When you become engrossed in your training programme or any exercise regime it’s important to factor in rest and recovery.
Rest is any time spent not training; non-training days are needed to allow your body time to rest and repair. The most significant rest is done whilst we sleep, which is why factoring in a good nights sleep is so important.
Recovery is a multitude of actions we carry out which enable our bodies to repair and recover. Hydration and food are two vital recovery points. Try to remember to:
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- replace fluids before, during and after our workouts, taking on electrolytes to replace the salts lost through sweat.
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- eat a balance of protein, good fats and carbohydrates. This is essential for recovery, protein in particular helps muscles repair and rebuild.
Stretching and yoga also allow the muscle to repair, aiding flexibility and preventing injury.
Rest and recovery can be a training programme all of its own; listen to your body and allow it to rest and recover to notice the benefits in your training.