Recovery

North Carolina has had a record summer so far in 2012 making your recovery strategies even more crucial. Need some tips. Fleet Feet Raleigh can help.

1. Stretch. More importantly try dynamic stretching. It's better than static stretching (which can sometimes can do more harm than good). From the Running Times: "New research indicates that the flexibility that is a by-product of pre-run static stretching may be a biomechanical factor that hurts running economy, which is a measure of your overall efficiency." There are seven great stretches over at the link above. Implementing simple, quick, but effective stretches like butt kicks, high knees + even jumping jacks before + after runs can go a long way at injury prevention.

2. Hydrate. We've talked about this before, but the key isn't just carbohydrates, but electrolytes (sodium + potassium). Get your electrolytes from natural + organic sources like fruits + veggies + supplement your runs with low calorie drinks like NUUN + Vespa which cut out all the high fructose corn syrup + help your body pull from it's natural carbohydrate stores. Check out Fleet Feet Raleigh's Nutrition + Hydration page for a great run down.

3. Compression. To recover faster, compression is a scientific no-brainer. The technique has been around for decades, but the running community has finally jumped onto it's benefits. Compression socks can help speed up blood circulation to the lower leg by 30% helping to increase recovery. CEP offer many great compression options to help speed up blood flow + slow lower leg muscle vibration. Try-on's are available here at Fleet Feet Raleigh.