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Top 10 Products for After Exercise Recovery

By , About.com Guide

Updated March 03, 2011

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Rest and relaxation is an essential part of training and sometimes it just feels good. If you or someone you know needs to sooth some aching, overworked muscles, consider indulging in one or more of the following products.

1. Foam Rollers

Foam RollerE. Quinn

Foam rollers offer many of the same benefits as a sports massage, without the big price tag. The foam roller not only stretches muscles and tendons but it also breaks down soft tissue adhesions and scar tissue. By using your own body weight and a cylindrical foam roller you can perform a self-massage or myofascial release, break up trigger points, and soothe tight fascia while increasing blood flow and circulation to the soft tissues.

Also see: Foam Roller Exercises for Easing Tight Muscles

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2. Tiger Tail Massager

Tiger Tail Massagerphoto courtesy of PriceGrabber
Athletes get sore muscles from time to time, but not everyone can afford a routine massage. That's where the tiger tail comes in handy. This small portable self-massager with a comfy foam roller helps athletes take care of those minor aches any time they feel the burn.
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3. The Stick Self Massager

The Stick Massager(c) pricegrabber

Massagers come in a variety of styles, sizes and price ranges. The Stick massager is similar to the Tiger tail, but is designed with small plastic rollers rather than a foam rolling surface.. These are perfect for runners, hikers, and cyclists and proably feel just as good for evryone else.

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4. Sports Massage - Books on Technique

Massage for aching muscles is really only beneficial if you know what you are doing. If you plan to perform your own massage, learning the basic how to's might be a good idea.

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5. Massage Oils

If you are lucky enough to have someone in your life who gives a great massage, you owe it to yourself to have massage oil on hand. It makes the art of sports massage that much more effective and relaxing.

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6. Mineral Salt Soak

Whether you are an athlete or a recreational exerciser, a warm soak in the tub with mineral or epsom salts feels great. There are many to choose from, but if you want something simple and inexpensive, just go for the epsom salts.

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7. Heating Pads

If you'd like to get the benefits of heat without the production of a warm soak in the tub, you can find a heating pad works well for localized heat application to specific muscles or areas of the body.

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8. Bath pillow

What good is a soothing bath, complete with oils or bath salts if you don't have a pillow?
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9. Muscle creams, balms and rubs

A variety of creams and rubs are available for sore muscles. Most work by increasing the blood flow and temperature of the skin where applied.
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10. Travel Hammock

Finally, if you just want to lounge and relax in the sun, the hammock is perfect. Choose from portable or heavy-duty and let the rest and relaxation begin.

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