Running

Post Race! Now what?!

Congrats!! You finished your race! I love the feeling when you cross the finish line. But usually the next day feeling is much worse. After running a handful of races I have found a couple tricks to help ease the soreness and make getting up for work on Monday not as bad as it could be.

  1. Cool down/stretch. After you cross the finish line, walk for a little bit. I know you are tired, but letting your legs go from running> walking> relaxing will help prevent them from stiffening up. Once your body has cooled down a little bit, it is a good time to start stretching with both dynamic and static stretches. I am a big fan of dynamic stretching- high knees and high kicks are my go to’s! I will continue to stretch and move throughout the day.
  2. Indulge/hydrate. You’ve earned it. I usually plan my post race meal days in advance lol. It is one of the little things that can help motivate me during those last few miles when I am dozing off. Enjoy your post race high with a nice meal with family and friends. Don’t forget to hydrate! Water and gatorade will help your body recover! Before you reach for the beer, try and get some electrolytes in your system.
  3. Rest. Your body will need the rest after a big race. Take a day off from the gym or do some light exercises to stretch your muscles. I usually workout on the exercise bike to loosen up my legs the week following a race.
  4. Thank you. Make sure to thank the volunteers while you are racing. They are such a big part of the race. And don’t forget about your fans! They woke up early and followed you around the city all morning to cheer you on. Thank them…and everyone!
  5. Prepare for your next race! Take this runners high with you and look into your next race! Make sure you give your body enough time to recover and be able to train for it.

Keep these tips in mind when you are preparing for your next race and you will be on your way to a nice and easy recovery!

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