In Order to Get Ahead... You Need to Slow Down

Whether you’re working out to build a better body or working 60+ hours a week to open a new business recovery and relaxation have to part of your plan. Our bodies are made to adapt and conform to whatever we put it through but it will eventually breakdown if it isn’t given the proper tools to recovery. A great fighter/trainer once told me, “You have to be sure that your current training routine allows you to be 100% effective for the next training routine. If you aren’t 100% every time you’re getting knocked out.” So it’s essential to schedule recovery sessions within your training routine and be sure you are practicing daily rejuvenation. Here are few to get you started:

•  Start a flexibility routine that includes daily active and static stretching: We can go into a series about why you need to stretch but let’s make this easy. If your muscles are constantly contracted and tight you have excess pressure on your skeletal frame. This results in tight neck, shoulders, back, hips and legs. If you add on lifting weights or being in a seated position for extended periods of time you only compound the pressure. Stretching will allow you to relieve that pressure and create easy flowing movement. Click here to learn more.
   
• R.I.C.E.: Rest, Ice, Compression, Elevation! It’s an old adage and most people think of this only when an injury has occurred but this can also be a preventative tool. Compound movements, resistance training, external and internal stress all cause inflammation in your body. Try icing your lower back and neck on a nightly basis when you have finished your day. Do some slow static stretching after icing and you will be more than ready for a great night’s sleep. Click here to learn more about how to take advantage of R.I.C.E and cold therapy here.

• Bodywork: What makes and keeps you feeling great? Massage, chiropractic, Myokinetics or spa days? You choose your favorite but make sure you are getting regular bodywork done. Having someone else work out knots and tight spots in your body that you can’t do yourself will make for better posture and movement. At my business, Studio 222 Personal Training Centers in Las Vegas we are sold on Fascial Stretch Therapy. It is the best combination of massage and yoga that I have ever experienced. Click here to learn more about FST here. 

So whatever it turns out to be, daily yoga classes or weekly massage don’t be afraid to take a pit stop every once in while and recover. You will only find yourself getting stronger.

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