As summer shifts into fall, should you shift your workout routine, too? Absolutely.
For athletes, autumn means more than just shorter days and cooler temperatures. During this seasonal transition, our bodies crave more rest and recovery than in the active, vibrant months of summer. We also need extra nutrients to strengthen our muscles and our immune systems.
Here are three ways you can shift your training routine to embrace the natural energy of autumn and support your body through the season so you can continue to be your best.
3 Ways for Athletes to Stay Healthy in Autumn
1. Spend extra time warming up and cooling down.
Warming up is an essential part of any workout routine. In fall, however, those extra minutes of stretching can be the difference between a healthy season or months of aches and pains.
In autumn, the cooler weather naturally makes our muscles and tendons stiff and tense. Your circulation may dip in cooler months, too, which makes the warm-up process even more important.
Avoid injuries and perform at your best by spending an extra 5-10 minutes warming up and another 5-10 minutes cooling down after your workout throughout autumn and winter. This keeps your body warm and flexible - and prevents those pesky pulled muscles and achy joints.
For even better results, massage a thin layer of CBD gel to any sore or stiff areas before your workout.
2. Boost with anti-inflammatory post-workout snacks.
Inflammation can do more than put a damper on your training plans. It can also make you more susceptible to seasonal illnesses like colds, the flu, and allergies. Keep your head in the game and your immune system strong by fueling up with anti-inflammatory post-workout snacks.
Anti-inflammatory foods tend to be rich in vitamins, minerals, antioxidants, and healthy fats. These compounds protect your cells from free radical damage and support your immune system. Try these anti-inflammatory autumn snacks after your next workout:
3. Balance high-intensity workouts with low-intensity training.
No matter what kind of athlete you are, there is power in balance. In fall, our bodies naturally want to slow down and reserve energy for the winter season. To support your body through this transition - while also staying on track with your training - incorporate low-intensity workouts that focus on strength, flexibility, and focus.
Yoga, tai chi, qi gong, stretching, swimming, and walking are all excellent fall activities to alternate with your more intense workout days. Yin yoga can be beneficial to target any stiff areas while restoring your body this season.
Stay Strong Through Every Season with Unstoppable CBD
In any season, prevention and protection are essential. Along with eating right, getting quality rest, and creating balance in your practice, use CBD gel to prevent injuries and protect your body against unnecessary stressors.
Unstoppable Sports Recovery Gel is the perfect autumn sidekick for any athlete. Simply apply the gel to any areas that feel stiff, weak, or sore, and massage into the skin for a few minutes before your workout. Reapply after your workout to relieve pain and keep your body functioning optimally.
Boost your autumn workouts with Unstoppable Sports Recovery CBD gel today.