Question:
I feel tired and sore after exercising. Anything I can do? (Jim, Port Washington)
Answer:
Exercise should invigorate you for the rest of the day, not deplete you. A mild soreness when performing a new exercise or going a little heavier on weightlifting is normal. However, pain is a warning sign to stop. To bounce back after your workout:
- Let your heart-rate and breathing slow down gradually. Make sure to cool down.
- Stretch after your exercise when your muscles are warm and more flexible.
- After your workout – within 30 minutes, have some carbs like fruit, or low-fat chocolate milk; you can have some protein, but don’t worry about protein consumption post workout. It is important that you replenish your carbs for the growth of muscle tissue.
Make sure to drink water before, during and after your workout. Some fatigue and cramps are actually caused by dehydration.
Listen to Frank Mikulka’s Weekly Fitness Tips every week on Debbie Mandel’s Turn On Your Inner Light Show every Tuesday evening from 7:00 to 7:30 pm on WGBB 1240AM. Also available on www.turnonyourinnerlight.com/page3.html
