May 7, 2021 |
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1) A meta-analysis of nine studies revealed that cold-water immersion is more effective at reducing muscle soreness than passive recovery (where you exercise at a low intensity to flush out exercise-induced toxins). The therapy is said to constrict blood vessels, helping to reduce swelling and tissue breakdown. Prof Aryane Machado and his team also concluded that water temperature between 11°C and 15°C is optimum for 11-15mins. But be warned: some say reducing soreness is a sign the muscle isn’t adapting effectively to the workout.
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2) The last 40 years has seen an explosion in running. But a review by biomechanics expert Benno Nigg shows that, despite purported advancements in run-shoe technology, injury rates haven’t dropped. Nigg suggested not choosing run shoes based on gait analysis, such as pronation and impact forces (whether you land on your heel or ball of your foot). Instead, he observed that your body naturally runs to its ‘preferred movement path’, whatever shoes you’re wearing, which their research showed was usually the most comfortable pair.
3) Rotator cuff strain, patellar tendonitis, shin splints… even the strongest triathlete can suffer multisport injuries. Rest, recuperation and, according to Prof Kevin Tipton of Stirling University, a change in nutrition strategy helps recovery. A long spell off can reduce muscle mass so Tipton suggests eating more protein (2-2.5g/kg/day). Creatine, used by bodybuilders, can also stave off muscular reductions, while there’s a case for upping omega-3 intakes, too. The fatty acid reduces inflammation, though Tipton says swelling aids healing.
