12 Ultimate Stretches for Post-Workout Recovery

 

Have you ever woke up the day after hitting the gym hard and just getting out of bed is tough? Yep, I think we’ve all been there a time or two.

The wobbly legs, sore muscles and super intense stiffness can really put a damper on your day. While I love a tough workout or class, I don’t love being super sore the next day. On those days the last thing that I feel like doing is moving around, but just laying on the couch or struggling in pain throughout the day is counter productive. The best thing to do is some simple movements and stretching to help workout that lactic acid and help my muscles recover, along with some other TLC first aid remedies from PROcure that I use to help my body heal and recover.

Below are 12 amazing head to toe stretches that help relieve post-workout soreness and tension. Hold each stretch for at least 30 seconds (and longer if comfortable, especially for those areas with more soreness) and remember to breathe. Never force a stretch and slowly find your way out of stretches to avoid injury.

12 Head to Toe Stretches for Sore Muscles and Post-Recovery

1. Seated Neck Stretch

Apply gentle pressure but do not force. Repeat on both sides. I love starting my stretching sessions with a long neck stretch to help loosen and relieve tension.

2. Seated Side Body Stretch

One of my favorite stretches for opening up the side body with a long side stretch. Grasp wrists and slightly pull to further the stretch.

3. Butterfly

Perfect for stretching inner thighs, groin and hips.

4. Seated Forward Fold

Perfect for stretching the lower back and hamstrings.

5. Seated Spinal Twist

Melt tension for spine and gluten with this savory stretch. Lengthen and slowly twist into this stretch.

6. Raised Hip Stretch

Keep raised foot engaged and gently apply pressure to knee of bent leg to assist in stretching the hip.

7. Downward Dog

Perfect for stretching the spine, hips, hamstrings and calves while opening up your shoulders and chest.

8. Pigeon

A personal favorite for stretching the hip flexors! Try to keep front leg parallel with the mat (without forcing).

9. Crescent Pose

Stretches and strengthens both upper and lower body with this strong pose. Back leg can be lowered or raised. Legs, groin and hip flexors will love this stretch.

10. Twisted Lunge

Legs, groin and hip flexors all benefit from this pose, while your upper body is allowed to crack open.

11. Runners Stretch

I have a love/hate relationship with this pose when it comes to my hamstrings. Make sure to keep front foot engaged to intensify the stretch.

12. Quad Stretch

This is the perfect stretch for your quads! Feel the burn above your knee melt away after holding this pose.

Topical Remedies That Combine Science & Nature

I’ve always been an epsom salt bath fan, but sometimes being able to soak in a hot bath for a prolonged period just isn’t a possibility. When I first heard about PROcure Epsom Salt Rub, I knew that I had to give it a try. When I have sore muscles, I simply rub a small amount onto my sore muscles as needed.

This unique gel combines science based properties and is enriched with ingredients from nature for a powerhouse treatment for sore, achy and painful muscles. PROcure Epsom Salt rub provides similar treatment as an epsom salt bath by the use of a concentrated spot treatment gel. Magnesium Sulfate (epsom salt), aloe vera and essentials oils are combined in this gel to help soothe and relax overused and sore muscles. I love the convenience of being able to use this on the go and without having to take an hour out of my day for a hot bath.

I’ve also been battling some pretty intense bruises on the underside of my arms from my arm balance practice. I’ve been using PROcure Bruise Remedy to help fade bruising and discoloration. This paraben and fragrance-free product contains botanicals such as Arnica and Green Tea to soothe swelling and minimize bruising.  I feel like it’s been super helpful for reducing the duration of time it takes for bruises to fade, which is a major win!

To find out more about PROcure products and how they utilize science and nature to make some amazing first aid products, be sure to check out more on their homepage. Make sure to snag some coupons here to save some money while stocking up on safe, family friendly first aid products at your local Walmart (or Amazon).

What’s your workout of choice?

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