With Labor Day weekend coming up, we all have rest and recovery on the brain. We know how important exercising is for our bodies and minds, but it’s also important to take a step back and let our bodies recharge. Taking a rest day is essential to keeping your body healthy, injury free, and feeling its best.
Runners and gym-goers, take a break this LDW and consider trying these activities to help you recover and prepare for your next workout.
Stretch
It’s easy to get caught up in training and neglect taking the time to properly stretch your muscles. Stretching is so important, though! Not only does it help to alleviate muscle tightness, it’s also works to improve flexibility and increase circulation throughout the body.
Go for a Walk
What you do on your rest days should also give your mind a break. Going outside to enjoy nature and take a walk can help to clear your head, while still getting your body moving in a less impactful way than a gym session.
Hydrate
We know how important it is to stay hydrated while exercising, but it’s also important on recovery days. When your body is properly hydrated, it is able to function at an optimal level. On rest days, keeping your body hydrated with water or snacks with high water content (think watermelon or other fruits) will help reduce muscle fatigue and boost your mood. You’ll be ready to tackle your next run or gym session feeling refreshed!
Sleep
Credit: @lyutsik on Instagram
Sleep is one of the best things you can possibly do for your body. Rest days are all about giving your body the time to recuperate, and what better way to do that than by catching some ZZZ’s? In fact, when your body enters REM sleep, your levels of growth hormones increase, which aids the rebuilding of your muscles post-workout. Aim to get 8 hours of sleep each night.
Do Something Fun
Credit: @theactivewalker on Instagram
Outside of your normal fitness routine, you can still maintain an active recovery day. Go on a bike ride with your family or swim at the beach. It’s a nice way to switch up your normal routine!
Wear OOFOS
Recovery starts from the feet up, so on the days that you’re taking a break from the gym, treat your feet to the best in recovery footwear. All OOFOS styles have the same patented footbed design and OOfoam recovery technology, absorbing 37% more impact than traditional footwear foams and taking stress off of your body with every step. On your next rest day, slip into a pair and let your body recover faster!
Rest days are not only beneficial to your body, but to your mind, as well. Take some time this Labor Day Weekend to take a break from work and your workouts, you’ll return feeling refreshed, rejuvenated and ready to tackle your next adventure!
What is your favorite way to recover from a workout? Let us know in the comments!
