written by Matt James, Content Writer
Boxing is not solely a sport but a combination of endurance, strength, and willpower. But let's get real: the intensity of an intense boxing match leaves your body seeking refuge. You might have sore muscles, feeling weak and tired, or even worse, simply need a break, but proper recovery needs to happen to be ready to strike back in the next round.
Here are 7 soothing ways to recover after an intense boxing match so that the next time you step into the ring, you are stronger than ever.
1. Cool Down After Boxing - Before Doing Anything Else
Instead of just walking out of the ring to sit on the nearest bench, take a cool down, which is a common mistake for inexperienced fighters. Instead, take around 10-15 minutes to cool down and perform activities like stretching, walking, or slow-motion shadow boxing.
How does it help? A cool down routine, owing to its supportive properties, enables muscles to be less stiff and allows heart rate to come back to normal quicker.
Pro tip: Execute stretches with various movements that incorporate dynamic movements for the arms, legs, and core to relieve tension, all while performing more strenuous moves to keep the body engaged.
2. Replenish and Fuel with Healing Foods
After a tough match, it’s clear that your body is screaming for some energy to restore and recuperate. Choose a meal composed of proteins, complex carbs, and healthy fats.
Examples: Roasted chicken with quinoa and avocado, or a protein smoothie with berries blended with almond butter.
Pro tip: Timing matters! To get the best muscle recovery, try to consume food within 30-60 minutes after the match.
3. Soak In An Epsom Salt Bath
A hot bath is great for sore muscles, but Epsom salts elevate that to a whole new level. These magnesium-rich salts are great when you want to reduce inflammation or alleviate sore muscles.
How to use: Add two cups of Epsom salts to a warm bath and soak for 20 minutes. Light candles or play calm music to complete the ambiance.
Pro tip: Drink water before, during, and after your soak, as the warmth may dehydrate you.
4. Use THC Vapes For Mind and Body Relaxation
THC Vapes can be a game-changer for those seeking natural relaxation. THC (Tetrahydrocannabinol) is infamous for its ability to put people into a deep, relaxing state such that all of their mental burdens seem to fade away.
Why it works:
Some puffs help to make the body relax.
The intensity felt within the match is cut down completely.
The body won’t feel sore post-practice.
Pro tip: If THC isn’t your thing, TCHC vapes offer similar soothing effects without the psychoactive buzz.
5. Supercharge Your Recovery By Correcting Your Sleep Habits.
Sleep is the under appreciated champion of recovery when your body is doing most of the healing, repairing of muscle tissue, and replenishment of energy levels in your body as a whole.
How to optimize: Try to always follow the same sleep schedule, leave all electronic devices and screens for an hour before bed, and make sure you have blackout curtains and white noise so you do not get disturbed when you sleep.
Pro tip: Drinking warm chamomile tea or taking a magnesium supplement can help you get more zzz.
6. Get A Sports Massage/Roller
After a match, your muscles tend to become knotty, like a bunch of wires tangled together. Various methods, such as foam rolling or sports massage, can relieve muscle tension and improve blood circulation.
Why it works: These techniques target deep tissue and break down the lactic acid accumulation, salt and peppering the area faster recoveries.
Foam roller guide: To loosen tight spots in your legs and back, roll them over for 30 seconds to a minute with moderate pressure.
Pro tip: If you are busy, try a massage gun to relieve stress in the target area.
7. Engage in Active Recovery the Day After
It can be tempting to stay curled up on the couch watching television, but mild movement can aid in recovery from the match.
What to do: Take a dip in the pool, attend a gentle yoga session, or take a fast walk. These movements help elevate circulation without putting additional strain on the body.
Why it works: Active recovery helps remove toxins and decreases muscle soreness and tightness.
Pro tip: It is important to focus on rest days and not injuries; don't work too hard. The aim is to move around but not exhaust oneself.
Bonus Tip: Drinking Water While Active Is Not Optional
Rehydrating fluids is essential to avoid tightness and tiredness.
Hydration hack: Sea salt mixed with water and lemon helps replenish electrolytes lost during activity. Coconut water is a great source as well.
Pro tip: Instead of chugging, sip throughout the day, as it is more efficient in rehydrating our bodies.
In Summary
Recovering from an injury after a boxing match is not only about recovery but also about preparing one's physical and mental self for the next bout.
These seven recovery methods target every dimension of your well-being, from cooling down to the enjoyment of a THC vape session.
A fact worth noting is that a well-rested and rejuvenated fighter is also very dangerous. So make sure you patch yourself up, fill up your tank, and return to action with much greater ferocity than before! These tips will ensure that you remain on top of your game whether you are an experienced fighter or have just entered the ring.