Whether you’re running a 5K or a 26.2, these are some of the best supplements and gadgets for soothing sore legs and boosting recovery
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Marathon recovery is no small feat. Research has shown that it takes seven to 10 days to fully recover from the cellular damage sustained during a marathon. Even when runners’ muscles have recovered, tendons and soft tissues usually take even long to get back to normal.
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Running coaches recommend starting the recovery process right after the race, and suggestions run the gamut from self-massaging to refueling with supplements.
Whether you’re fresh off a 26.2 or gearing up for a 5K, Athletech News rounded up some of the best marathon recovery tools that can be done from the comfort of runners’ homes.
Best massage gun
Rally’s award-winning Orbital Massager doesn’t just vibrate. Featuring three attachments for the most precise relief, the device also has a rotating motion that naturally warms muscles for deep tissue penetration on trigger points and tight knots all over the body.
Best supplements for joint recovery
Momentous Collagen Shots, 15-Pack
$31.46 ($41.95), 25% off
Momentous’ Collagen Shots are on-the-go supplements for athletes and contain 10g of collagen plus 35mg of vitamin C to promote collagen synthesis for peak performance. With a sweet taste and a gel-like consistency, Momentous’ Collagen Shots are delicious and effective as an on-the-go replenishing and rebuilding solution.
Best pain relief recovery mat
HigherDOSE’s Infrared PEMF Go Mat is a high-tech recovery tool that uses PEMF technology to reduce inflammation, increase energy, and promote deeper sleep. With an infrared layer that provides penetrating heat for improved circulation, as well as a healing amethyst and tourmaline layer, runners will recover their bodies in more ways than one post-race. Runners can use the mat at their desk or on the couch while they work from home, providing a streamlined recovery process.
Best electrolytes for recovery
LMNT Electrolyte Drink Mix comes in a range of flavors from Citrus Salt to Lemon Habanero to provide users enjoyable replenishment of lost electrolytes during race day. LMNT’s 1,000 mg of sodium, 60mg of magnesium, and 200 mg of potassium is a science-backed ratio to recover quickly and effectively. Its Chocolate Salt flavor can even be added to hot water for an electrolyte-rich version of hot chocolate.
Best for leg pain relief
Hyperice Normatec Elite Legs
$1,099
Arguably one of the best recovery tools for runners, Hyperice’s portable Normatec Elite Legs delivers seven levels of compression to boost circulation and reduce muscle pain. The boots are ideal for increasing warm up and recovery time before and after training and races, and they feature a battery life of four hours.
Photo by Miguel A Amutio on Unsplash
