Hiking is an engaging activity that provides a combination of nature, adventure and physical exercise. It’s not only fun but also comes with numerous health benefits. However, knowing how to recover effectively after a strenuous hike is important for maintaining good health and avoiding injuries.
If you want to recover faster, here are eleven tips that could help.
1. Stay Hydrated
After a strenuous hike, your body needs immediate attention. A top priority is replenishing lost fluids. Hydration is vital in maintaining your body functions and speeding up recovery.
2. Consume Protein-rich Foods
Once you have filled up on water, it’s time to focus on nutrition. It’s best to consume protein-rich foods after a hike. Foods such as lean meat, eggs and protein bars help repair muscle tissue and increase the recovery process.
3. Cool Down
Cooling down plays an essential role in faster recovery after a challenging hike. The reason is it helps to eliminate lactic acid build-up.
4. Use an Ice Pack
In case of acute pain or swelling, applying ice packs can be beneficial since it can reduce inflammation. Remember not to apply ice directly, though. You should wrap it in a cloth before application. Then, place it gently on the affected area for about fifteen minutes.
5. Get a Massage
A good massage can be a good way of recovering faster after an intense physical activity like hiking as it aids in muscle relaxation and increases blood flow. While self-massage can be effective, it’s best to see a professional masseur who can target specific areas.
6. Get Proper Rest
One of the best things you can do post-hike is get proper rest. Your body needs time to repair and restore itself. Respect your sleep schedule and ensure that you get enough hours in.
7. Listen to Your Body
Listen to what your body has to say. Often, people overlook their body’s signals which could lead to injuries or lengthy recovery periods. So, pay attention to what your body is telling you.
8. Elevate Your Feet
If your hike has left you with swollen ankles or feet, elevation could be a good solution for fast recovery. By merely raising the affected area above the level of your heart, gravity can help reduce swelling and discomfort. For example, you could lie down and prop up your legs on some pillows.
9. Use Supportive Gear
Using supportive gear post-hike can aid recovery as well. Compression socks or stockings promote blood flow in the lower extremities following a demanding hike, while knee braces or ankle bandages provide support and alleviate unnecessary strain.
10. Try THC Topicals
THC topicals are creams, lotions, oils or balms infused with tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), the psychoactive compound in cannabis. They are designed to be applied directly onto the skin.
Post-hike soreness can be frustrating, but THC topicals could help. They are designed to offer local relief from discomfort and inflammation, making them potentially useful for recovering hikers.
THC topicals work by interacting with endocannabinoid receptors in the skin without entering the bloodstream. They might help you curb localised pain or swelling. There are lots of other ways to ingest THC if you suffer with more extreme pain, such as THCa Live Resin Carts, which are more potent.
However, it’s important to remember that the legality of THC products can vary significantly across countries and regions. Therefore, before purchasing THC topicals, make sure you verify that they are legal in your particular locality.
11. Consult a Health Practitioner
Finally, if severe fatigue or pain persists even after attempting the above recovery measures, you should book an appointment with a health professional. Doctors or physical therapists can provide expert advice tailored specifically to your condition.
Understanding when to seek professional care is essential in ensuring complete recovery after a strenuous hike.
Final Thoughts
Now you know how to recover after a strenuous hike, you can start hiking with confidence. You could even start planning a hiking holiday.
