3 Simple Ways to Improve Your Recovery

What is your approach to recovering after a martial arts class? If you’ve never thought about that question before, you’re not alone. Most of us tend to focus on the work that we put in during class. But then we forget that what we do in between training sessions is just as important.

Recovery is where gains happen. Yes, you need to push yourself and work hard to achieve your goals. But if you’re only ever pushing with little or no recovery, then you’ll be on your way to a physical roadblock. These roadblocks show up in the form of overtraining, lack of motivation, extreme tiredness, injury, and even burnout.

Here are three simple ways you can improve your martial arts recovery:

1. Nutrition

Not everyone follows the same diet as many personal factors go into what is best for each individual. But in general, try to choose real foods that are whole, nutritious, and minimally processed. To help with recovery, make sure you’re eating quality foods before and after training. Skipping a meal or relying on an energy bar is going to make it harder for your body to recover.

2. Sleep

During sleep, your body repairs itself. If you don’t get a lot of sleep, then your body is missing out on prime repair time. If you struggle with getting to bed, then it might help to create a nightly routine. Set a “bedtime alarm” and try to go to bed at the same time each night. Reduce or eliminate screen time before going to sleep and keep your bedroom cool and dark.

3. Hydration

Water is an essential element that keeps your body functioning well. Your body is about 60% water, so when you’re dehydrated, this has a negative effect on how your body functions. You can’t properly recover when you’re dehydrated, so make sure you’re drinking before, during, and after training.