Recovery Thursday: What Actually Counts as Recovery?
You train hard, but recovery is just as important.
You crushed your virtual training this week. You showed up, did the work, and put that pain in. So, now what? Most people overlook recovery when they’re chasing results. But there are two different types of recovery your body actually needs.
Active Recovery
Try light movements like long walks or jogs, gentle yoga, foam rolling, or stretching. These activities help blood flow and speed up muscle repair.
Active recovery still involves doing something—but gentler. Think of it as an effective, but light workout that helps you feels better, and less sore. This kind of recovery reduces muscle tightness, and cleans out lactic acid buildup, which basically helps your body bounce back faster.
Passive Recovery
Literally do less — and yes, it does count. Complete rest — get some sleep, a massage, meditate for at lest 10 minutes, or just take the day off (sometimes that includes work). In passive recovery, your body shifts into “repair and rebuild” mode. You’re not active or moving, but your muscles are doing the work behind the scenes.
The key: Use both. Listen to your body and choose what it needs. Be intentional!
🌤️ Tired but still want to work? Go for a walk and stretch (active).
😴 Fully burnt out? Take the day off and sleep in (passive).
🪷 RECOVERY MOVE of the Week:
90/90 Hip Switch
This is a go-to move for unlocking hip tightness and boosting joint mobility. It’s low-impact, feels amazing, and is great after class. Sit with your front and back legs bent at 90 degrees. Begin to rotate your knees, side-to-side, slowly. Repeat this motion 10–12 times; it opens hip and boosts mobility.
You’ll feel it in your hips, lower back, and core. Try it—your body will thank you.
💭 THOUGHTS THIS THURSDAY:
“Accountability closes the gap between intentions and actions!” — Posted by @mytrainerkenneth on Instagram
🎧 SONG OF THE DAY:
“Eternal Light” by Free Nationals, Chronixx
Unwind to this track while you recover this weekend.
❓ How do you recover after a hard workout? Active or passive? Let us know below.