Post Marathon Recovery Tips- Part 2 by Ania Gibb

2. Refuel with Protein.

Protein is a necessity for post-marathon recovery. It helps speed up muscles repair and reduces the response from the stress hormone cortisol. It also encourages glycogen replacement. You need to make sure you eat within 30 minutes of finishing your marathon, even if it’s a protein bar. Dairy and Meat are packed full of protein but with Veganism becoming extremely popular this past year for athletes, you’ll find loads of protein sourced foods to choose from.

4. Ice bath or Epsom salts bath.

I’ve never personally had an ice bath but I know a lot of runners that swear by them. I’m too much of a wimp to try! So I stick with my beloved Epsom salts bath. Ice baths reduces swelling, constrict blood vessels and tissue breakdown, as well as flushing out toxins. Epsom salts does pretty much exactly the same by flushing out waste, works as an anti-inflammatory and brings blood flow back to the legs. This is vital for muscle recovery and repair.

5. Celebrate, Relax and Sleep.

All those months of hard work are over. You’ve accomplished a massive achievement and should take the week to celebrate. Show off your medal and be someone that people can aspire to. This is your week to feel like a superstar. Just remember to relax and catch up on your sleep. Your body need to repair itself, so take as long as you need. Perhaps take the next day off work and just spend the day sleeping, walking, stretching and chilling out. Have some me time. Every individual will recover differently depending on fitness level. My first ever marathon took me a whole week! Oh the pain, the blisters and stairs became the enemy. Nowadays I feel fine the next day with only a few niggles. Shows what the right training and recovery can really do. Although… I do still take the next day off so I can celebrate with a few drinks!!

I hope my top tips help you with your journey on becoming a marathon runner!!