327/365 Turn on the Heat for Sore Muscles

Friends and Fitness Enthuisasts,

If you are feeling particularly sore but your muscles aren't swelling from injury, try some heat! The ice pack I wrote about in an earlier post also works as a heating pad. Simply microwave it and you're set. Also be sure to wrap a towel around this one before you pick it up because it'll be super hot.

In case you were wondering, there isn't any official research on the effectiveness of heat on sore muscles that I could find. However, from personal experience, I can tell you that it feels wonderful. Maybe you already knew this; maybe you're like me and forgot about doing it until someone (like your mother, thanks mom) reminds you. Either way, enjoy!

In health,

Lauren

74/365 Massage Your Muscle Cramps Away

Friends and Fitness Enthusiasts,

Have you ever woken up in the middle of the night with a muscle cramp or "Charlie horse" in your leg? It's a terrible feeling that could be due to dehydration, low potassium, low sodium, low carbohydrate levels, or a lack of stretching.

In order to remedy the situation, try any and all of these:
- stretch the muscle that is ailing you
- massage, squeeze, or knead the muscle; massage the tendons (the tissue that attaches your muscle to bone) of your muscle
- apply pressure to the trigger points, the spots that feel very tense, for a few seconds
- have a banana or salty snack
- drink a glass of water

The best way to prevent muscle cramps in the first place is to stretch very well after exercise and to stay hydrated.

In health,

Lauren