Written by Mia Barnes

Many fitness enthusiasts understand that push and pull during rest days. It’s imperative to give your body the rest it needs during a recovery routine. However, there’s always a lingering fear that you’re letting your muscles relax too much.

Staying active will help your body return to its regularly scheduled programming, but only when done in moderation. It’s best to avoid pulling any muscles, which would delay returning to your usual routine.

These are where low-impact exercises come in. Utilising equipment such as massage balls and foam rollers, along with simple motions like stretching, can help you maximize your recovery period and get back on your feet. 

Massage Ball for Mobility

Some people experience myofascial pain, which occurs around the connective tissues of the body. It stems from various triggers, from general stiffness to incorrect form or excessive use. Massage balls can help your body heal by distributing a little pressure to affected areas.

There are multiple ball types and sizes available on the market. Softer massage balls can alleviate your movement restrictions and release triggers. If you want more intense pressure to target smaller muscle groups, smaller variations like peanut balls can work.

To begin using the massage ball, try to feel the pain points within your body. Position your chosen tool and apply as much pressure as you can handle. You can slowly roll the ball in circles to loosen up those internal knots. Feel free to repeat it throughout the day until necessary.

Stretching for Flexibility

Stretching is a great way to refresh your body. It’s easy to do from the moment you wake up and throughout the day, and it offers several benefits, like stimulating your blood circulation and prompting oxygen flow. There are specific stretches to target certain parts of the body, but here are a few examples you can try out:

1. Side Stretch

●      Stand up straight

●      Raise an arm over your head

●      Lean to the opposite side while sliding your other hand down your leg

●      Hold for as many seconds as possible

●      Repeat for the other side

2. Windmilling

      ●      Stand up with your feet wide apart

●      Raise an arm over your head

●      Let your other hand touch your toes on the opposite side

●      Switch sides while staying bent

3. Child’s Pose

      ●      Get a mat and get into a kneeling position

●      Stretch out your arms forward and rest your hips on the feet

●      Slowly move your arms down to touch the ground

●      Bring your shoulders as low as possible and let your back lengthen

Foam Rolling for Muscle Relief

Foam rolling is also a staple for your workout recovery. It’s quite a simple procedure, as the foam roller works with your body rather than against it. The tool can also ease tension and alleviate pressure on the fascia. You could use it on almost any body part, but here are several suggestions on what muscle groups to work on.

1. Back

●      Lie down with the foam roller behind you

●      While bending your knees, lower your back onto the foam roller

●      Lift your glutes and roll back and forth from your upper to lower back

●      If comfortable, cross your arms above your head while rolling

2. Shoulders

●      Lie on your side and place the foam roller under your shoulder

●      Keep your arm straight as you roll your shoulder against the tool

●      Flip to the other side and work on your other shoulder

3. Hamstrings

●      Position the foam roller under your hamstring while sitting with straight legs

●      Cross one leg over the other

●      Roll the tool under one thigh, supporting yourself with your arms

●      Cross your legs the other way and work on the other side

Enhance Your Recovery Process

Muscle recovery is a key step in the workout process. It enables you to rest your body and helps you get right back into your exercise routine better than ever. Utilise the moves and products designed to assist you and create a more optimal resting period.