Whether you are new to exercise or have been an athlete for years, active recovery is a crucial aspect of any fitness routine. Rest days are essential, but incorporating the best active recovery workout can be just as beneficial, if not more, in helping your muscles heal and come back stronger.
As someone who has always planned my workouts around running, strength training, and full rest days, I recently decided to work with a trainer to prevent injuries. To my surprise, he introduced me to the concept of active recovery and included it in my routine. Initially hesitant about giving up my rest days, I soon realized the benefits of incorporating active recovery workouts.
Wondering how much to do on your active recovery days or if they are better than rest days? Personal trainers recommend active recovery over passive rest days for various reasons. It promotes blood flow, reduces muscle stiffness, aids in quicker muscle repair, and improves flexibility and mobility.
So, what exactly is active recovery? It is a low-impact workout that helps your body recover without adding stress. It should keep your heart rate at 30-60% of your maximum to ensure optimal recovery. You should aim for one active recovery day per week, incorporating activities like dynamic stretching, mobility exercises, or low-intensity cardio.
Some beneficial exercises for the best active recovery workout include walking, standing quad stretches, and yoga flows like downward dog to upward dog. These movements help loosen stiff muscles, improve flexibility, and promote blood circulation. Remember to keep the effort low and focus on relaxation during your active recovery sessions.
