Do I stretch after every workout? For the most part, yes. Do I foam roll? Not as often as I should. I have a lot of faith in my recovery sandals, but since I just received a new pair from Amazon I don't think they can take all the credit.
So what's going on?
My answer...supplements. I have started using a couple of new supplements that have super powers.
BCAAs
I started taking BCAAs after getting the flu in February as an energy aid. BCAAs (branched chain amino acids) also play a major role in muscle recovery. Basically, by taking one serving before my workout I get an energy boost to my muscles that helps me get through the workout. That same serving helps me bounce back quicker with less delayed onset muscle soreness occurring.
Magnesium
Every night before I go to bed I take a magnesium pill. Magnesium is calming and helps muscles relax which can help with sleep issues (which I have sometimes), but it also aids in the muscle recovery process. Magnesium is an anti-inflammatory which can help with post-workout inflammation and it relieves tight muscles which are a common result of lactic acid build up.
Natural Eggshell Membrane (NEM)
Natural Eggshell Membrane was recommended to me by my chiropractor because it is known to help repair cartilage and because Glucosamine makes me nauseous ---> which I learned before having my meniscectomy. NEM contains naturally occurring glucosamine (so no side effects) which in some research is said to also help repair damaged tissue and reduce inflammation aiding muscle recovery.
While I started taking these supplements for other reasons, I will happily enjoy the extra benefit of less muscle soreness.
What I use (affiliate links):
BPI Sports Best BCAA Powder - arctic ice flavor
Life Extension Magnesium - 160mg
Healthy Origins Natural Eggshell Membrane
Do your supplements have super powers?
Magnesium is also a laxative! I can't take it because well, you know...
ReplyDeleteI haven't heard of eggshell membrane. Interesting!
I must not be taking enough for that!
DeleteI use a magnesium spray. I've also found Nuun to be super helpful to me this summer (preventing cramps).
ReplyDeleteI haven't tried a spray, but I've used the cream version. It was just like using biofreeze or bengay.
DeleteI take a multivitamin and a calcium pill but that's all. For some reason I am leary of all those supplements on the market. My husband on the other hand seems to take them ALL...haha
ReplyDeleteMy husband is way ahead of me too. I just started using these supplements this year - and I only use BCAAs on training days.
DeleteI second what Wendy said about Magnesium. I do use a spray though or soak in a magnesium bath. I'm a huge fan of BCAA's. I also swear by collagen twice a day. I've done some VERY hard strength workout with zero soreness after and I agree, it's pretty amazing.
ReplyDeleteI'm hearing more people say collagen...time for me to look into that one!
DeleteI have just started using collagen recently, and have been taking turmeric for several years. I also have a magnesium spray I use some times. I should look into the BCAA's....
ReplyDeleteAns I should look into collagen ;)
DeleteI often wonder if my vitamins do anything at all for me. I have not tried the ones you use. I know people swear by collagen lately but I need to find a vegetarian version.
ReplyDeleteMagnesium is a must for me! I have a magnesium oil spray that I use and I also use a lotion with magnesium as well.
ReplyDelete