How to Recover From a Marathon in Record Time

How to Recover From a Marathon

Is your butt trying to tell you something? Credit: lululemon athletica

4. Stretch mindfully. Of course you need to stretch, but before you launch into your usual routine, pause to consider what exactly is sore. Your feet will be sore, and you may even have a few blisters to treat as well, but try to notice what feels different  than the expected exhaustion. For example, are your calves really sore, or are they just tired? Do a quick stretch and then move on to the muscles that actually feel tight. Take some time to stretch those particular muscles (Google is your friend to find muscle-specific stretches), and also use a foam roller, stick or even a wine bottle to “roll out” that muscle tension — ideally within an hour or two of finishing. Remember, the sooner you can do this the better, since right after the race is when your muscles will be warm and pliable. If you have a non-slip bathtub/bathmat, the shower is a fabulous place for some of that stretching — the combo of getting to ease your tight muscles and simultaneously wash off the gross salty residue always feels awesome.