Post-workout recovery for your body  

Post-workout recovery is so important that we’ve been installing Recovery Zones throughout our clubs so our members can make the most of muscle massage for improved performance.   

Massage guns and percussive therapy, like the Hyperice kit available in our Recovery Zones and hydromassage beds in selected clubs, can help with muscle recovery. They improve the blood circulation around your body which helps to breathe more oxygen into your muscles and remove toxins, like lactic acid, from after your workout. This reduces how much or for how long you feel DOMS, which can help you feel ready for your next workout quicker.  

Cold water therapy is another important post-workout tool which has a similar effect of reducing inflammation from DOMS and helping you to move towards faster muscle recovery. The best way to try it at your local Virgin Active is in the cold plunge or a cool shower.   

Post-workout recovery for your mind 

When you hear the word ‘recovery’, your mind may immediately think of sleep. It’s an amazing way to heal your body by giving it time to repair itself. But getting a good amount of sleep not only repairs your muscles, it also regulates your hormones and improves your overall mood.  

Part of helping your body to get a good night’s sleep is signalling a wind down. This could be reducing the amount of time you spend on a screen before you go to bed or choosing a Sound Bath session to help you ease into relaxation.   

Post-workout snacks  

Eating the right food after your workout is one of the most important things that you can do for your body after your workout.  

Protein is essential for muscle recovery and muscle growth. It’s because protein breaks down into amino acids which repair the damage done to our muscle fibres during exercise and help them grow even stronger.  

Carbohydrates after exercise are also essential to replenish your glycogen energy stores which not only helps you beat the post-gym energy slump but also improves the speed of your muscle repair and muscle performance. 

Hydration is the final part of effective recovery. By keeping your body hydrated, you speed up muscle recovery and can noticeably reduce DOMS.  

Ready for your next workout? Check out all the group exercise classes available at Virgin Active.

Not yet a member? Find your nearest club and start your membership today.

FAQs 

What is post-workout recovery? 

Post-workout recovery is a broad term which covers eating, moving and resting your body for optimum performance and to give your body what it needs to bounce back. 

How can Virgin Active help with post-workout recovery? 

At Virgin Active, you’ll find Recovery Zones with percussive massage guns to soothe sore muscles. Our health food cafe Kauai is on hand to give you an extra dose of protein and carbohydrates to refuel your muscles and you’ll find classes like Sound Bath and Yoga to relax your mind and stretch your muscles.  

What should I do after my workout? 

Try massage guns, cold water therapy and get extra sleep to encourage your muscles to recover faster and rebuild stronger. 

What should I eat after my workout? 

Stick to the 3 R’s: rehydrate, refuel with carbohydrates and rebuild your muscles with protein.  

Which Virgin Active clubs have Recovery Zones?  

Chelmsford, Chiswick Park, Chiswick Riverside, Kensington, Mayfair, Moorgate, Solihull and Wimbledon.
Coming soon: Thundersley 

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