SJJ's 8 Favorite Recovery Tools
Proper recovery during physical training can be just as, if not more important than the training itself. You have put in the hard work to get you closer to your goals. Why would you want to sacrifice that work because you didn’t take the time to aid your recovery? Along with adequate sleep, proper shoes, nutrition and rest, we have compiled this list of some of our favorite recovery tools.
Spikey Massage Ball: $10
Plantar Fasciitis got you down? This firm massage ball with the spikey outer later provides a great deep tissue massage. We like it because the size is perfect for getting into the bottom of our feet. Try it on those tight knots in your body too.
Roller Sticks: $25-$35
Roller sticks help massage tight, sore muscles. They tend to be smaller and lighter than foam rollers which make them convenient for travel to races and practices. We carry a variety of sizes and styles in store.
Pro-Tec Orb Massage Ball: $20
The Orb is a firm massage ball that provides a very deep tissue massage. It’s great for the IT Band, Quadriceps, Hamstrings and Calves. This ball along with similar models may help reduce fatigue and promote flexibility.
Foam Rollers: $15-$30
Foam rollers are a great recovery tool to help alleviate muscle tension and thus increase range of motion. They come in a variety of soft and hard foams as well as different textures on the outside. If you’re new to foam rolling, a great way to start is with a softer foam roller.
Compression Sleeves & Socks: $40-$60
Compression sleeves and socks help with the circulation of blood through the legs (or arms) and allow for oxygen rich blood to return to the muscles. This process keeps lactic acid from building up in muscles. They are also beneficial for long flights when you’re sitting for an extended amount of time.
Recovery Slides: $50
After any long run or race, there’s nothing like taking off those shoes and sliding into a cushioned sandal with the perfect amount of support. We liken that feeling to taking off your tie or nylons the instant you walk in the door after work. We love our HOKA ONE ONE ORA Recovery Slides!
Manual & Automatic Deep Tissue Massage Devices: $130-$600
Deep tissue massagers are great options when you can’t get in for a massage with a professional. They come in manual models like the Roll Recovery R8 that gets in deep as you move it up and down your muscles. Massage guns, like the Theragun models, help increase blood flow to a specific area on the body by using percussive therapy. This deep massage eases discomfort and soothes tightness which can help reduce delayed onset muscle soreness (DOMS) and aid in faster recovery. Stop by the store to check out the different options. We even have some in store to test out!
We always recommend speaking with the professionals about ways to avoid injury and aid recovery. Massage Therapists, Physical Therapists, Chiropractors and Doctors are all great resources to getting your body in tip top shape. Although our Medical Nights are temporarily cancelled, we have a list of all our Medical Night Partners on our website. We are proud to partner with them and any of them would be happy to help!