6 Techniques for Post Triathlon Recovery From Heather Jackson
An Ironman race is the most grueling and intense type of triathlon. Once you finish an Ironman, your body is exhausted, muscles are damaged, and a ton of toxins are present throughout your body. Heather Jackson shares six techniques she uses for triathlon recovery to bring her body back to homeostasis.
“After a big race, the number one thing I’m focused on is my recovery.”
Post Triathlon Recovery Essentials
After a big Ironman event, Heather Jackson uses these 6 techniques to get her body back to normal.
1. Hydrate
Adequate hydration after the triathlon is over is just as important as hydrating properly before and during the event. Water is essential for many functions throughout the body, including regulating body temperature, lubricating joints, transporting nutrients, and helping blood circulation, so it’s important to makes sure you get enough of this nutrient. Dehydration has some serious side effects such as muscle cramps, dizziness, nausea, and fast heartbeats.
2. Sleep
Research has shown that a good night’s sleep leads to numerous benefits, including better performance for athletes. Ironman races create a lot of physical damage in the body. Sleep allows your body and brain to repair and heal itself. After a tough event, it may be a good idea to get a couple extra hours of sleep.
3. Salt Baths
Epsom salt baths are used for muscle aches, improving circulation, increasing nutrient absorption, and relieving joint pain. But, the list doesn’t end there. Epsom salt baths have a ton of other benefits too, including eliminating the body of toxins and other harmful substances.
4. Foam Rolling
Using a foam roller will help break down and release the fascia. During intense physical activity, the fascia interlocks and binds to the muscles and nerves. This restricts your muscles ability to move properly and may lead to pain.
5. Marc Pro
Heather Jackson uses her Marc Pro for a fast and full post triathlon recovery. Marc Pro uses unique technology that creates a non-fatiguing muscle contraction, which is the key facilitator for the recovery process. Since Marc Pro doesn’t cause any fatigue, after an Ironman event Heather will even sleep with it on.
6. Relax
Finishing a big race like an Ironman takes its toll mentally and physically. Take some time to just relax and give your body and mind a break.