Nowadays, most people agree that recovery is just as important as training – especially when you’re a professional athlete. It plays a crucial role in your overall mental and physical well-being. So, here are our top 5 recovery techniques after intense training – all of which can be done right here at Bangtao.
Take a Minute
It seems pretty straightforward, but you’d be surprised how many people forget to take a minute to breathe. After an intense training session, give yourself some time on the mats to regain your composure; breathe, stretch it out, or just sit and ponder over what you’ve just accomplished. It’s very important, however, to not pick up your phone during this time. Whatever is on it, can wait. Take a moment to close your eyes or simply look around. Give yourself a minute to let everything sink in and allow your heart rate to return to normal.
Electrolytes & Small Bites
Refueling after intense training will have a profound and positive impact on your mood for the rest of the day. It will also stabilize your blood sugar and energy levels so that you can perform the tasks you need to do post-training. It’s so important that you have enough left in the tank before jumping on a motorcycle to head home. Most people aren’t overly hungry after training; this is normal. To help you refuel, we recommend fresh coconut water, protein balls, or a smoothie – all readily available at our Ringside Cafe.
Ice Bath
Ice baths are becoming increasingly popular, but make no mistake – this is not a fad. Before ice baths, people would do cold plunges in glacier water or dip into a lake during winter. It’s much easier and more mainstream, so we now offer ice baths in Bangtao. The benefits are numerous; ice baths help reduce inflammation, enhance blood circulation, injury prevention, and shift lactic acid away from your muscles. Additionally, ice baths are known to help with sleep, something most of us struggle with. The shock of cold water can help improve mental focus and alertness. Afterwards, you’ll feel a sense of accomplishment, self-discipline, and mental resilience.
Massage
Massage is one of the best things you can do for recovery, and here in Thailand, you’re in luck – Thai massage is world-famous. It’s affordable, accessible, and convenient. Massage helps with sleep and increases recovery by boosting blood circulation. Blood fuels our muscles, so better circulation equates to more nutrients and oxygen flowing to areas that need it most. Massage can also help heal and repair damaged cells. It’s also a great way to unwind, pamper yourself, and relax. Massage is safe to do directly after training and will help with pain and relieve muscle tension too.
Swimming in the Ocean
The ocean has long been known for its ability to reduce stress. From the sound of waves crashing onto the shore to the fresh air and the endless horizon, it’s a place where you can ground yourself in nature. There’s also something called the ‘blue space effect,’ where being near bodies of water is linked to increased happiness levels. Saltwater is antibacterial and rich in natural minerals like magnesium, calcium, and potassium. A quick dip in the ocean can leave you mentally and physically refreshed. It’s an experience that not all gyms can offer, but Bangtao is just a few minutes from the Andaman Sea.