Running Recovery

In one of my previous posts about bouncing back from injury, I briefly covered a few things that a runner should do to avoid injury. Although it's super important to do things like stretch, ice, and foam roll to prevent injury, it's also just straight up important. After a race or a tough workout, it's important to focus on recovery so your body keeps on keepin' on and your training is nothing but smooth sailing. A common mistake runners make is thinking that once their run is over and their shoes are off, they're done for the day. Recovery is a key part of training and starts the second your run stops. Here's some keys to recovery after a tough workout or run:

• Eat something ASAP - No, this doesn't mean go treat yourself to a McDonald's McGriddle. After a run, it is key to get some food or other fuel in your stomach within 30 minutes. Whether it's something light like a smoothie, or a hearty egg omelette with the works, fuel is crucial to recovery! 
• Stretch - This one should be a no brainer. Stretching immediately after you run is important because that's when your muscles are warm and loose. Even if you do a couple stretches for 20 seconds each, it'll keep those muscles from getting tight.
• Hydrate - Nearly everyone downs some water after a nice long run or workout. But that should continue into the day, well after your run is over. Focus on drinking water even when you don't feel thirsty, because that will ensure you're staying hydrated

There are plenty of other ways to recover, but these three are the most basic, and in my opinion the easiest to do. Doing these things will ensure you body is good to go and ready for the next day of running.