3 Steps to Recovering From a Marathon
While I do enjoy running, I've never had the pipe dream of completeing a marathon. However, I do have vast amounts of respect for those who have participated in one (or multiple). I can only imagine the amount of physical and mental stamina and discipline a person must have in order to train for and then complete a marathon. Go them! Personally, I feel perfectly content sticking to my six mile route. But who knows, maybe that will change one day and I'll get the hankering to tack on an extra 20 miles just for fun. Until then, here are a few tips for all of you marathoners out there, for recovering safely and effectively after a big race:
#1: Go for a light jog.
In the days following a race, doing anything other than sitting or laying down may sound like utter torture. And running? That's a joke, right? Well, not really. Have you heard of the "hair of the dog" remedy? Yeah, this is sort of the same thing. Allowing your body to deliver blood flow to sore muscles can actually help to speed up the recovery process, since you are delivering nutrients to the places that need them and, simultaneously, removing waste and damaged tissue that promote soreness. Don't push yourself too much, though- keep it to less than half an hour (at a slow, steady pace).
#2: Concentrate on eating well.
Following the completion of a marathon, you will most likely feel constantly ravenous and be tempted to scarf down anything and everything within your line of sight. But in order to repair itself efficiently, your body needs the nutrients found in whole grains, protein, and fruits and veggies. Aim to replenish your potassium stores, as well, by consuming bananas, raisins, baked potatoes, squash, milk, and orange juice.
#3: Consider chiropractic care.
Runners often suffer from various injuries to joints and muscles, such as shin splints, knee, hip, and foot pain, and eventually spine injuries. Anytime a runner suffers from any of these inflictions, it is a good idea to be assessed and then potentially treated by a chiropractor on a regular basis, most specifically in the weeks leading up to and after a race. If you are interested in receiving chiropractic care for pre- or post- race care, consider visiting The Joint ...the chiropractic place. With affordable prices and convenient, walk-in hours, they can help you with all of your chiropractic needs!