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question

After workouts my legs feel heavy; what can I do to prevent this feeling?

National Academy of Sports Medicine
National Academy of Sports Medicine
answer

prevent heavy feelings in your legs you may need to ease more slowly into your workout. As your fitness levels improve, your legs will feel better after your workouts. In addition, adding a comprehensive cool-down routine and post-workout meal after exercise can help. During and after an intense workout your muscles become fatigued and can actually accumulate lactic acid (a metabolic waste product gained from working out), which can cause a burning or heavy feeling in the muscles being worked. Stretching, light aerobic exercise (such as walking on a treadmill), and proper nutrition and hydration helps the muscles recover. Start your cool-down by walking on a treadmill for roughly five minutes. Next, perform some static stretches, holding each stretch for a minimum of 30 seconds. Stretches such as a wall calf stretch, hamstring stretch, and quadriceps/hip stretch can help relieve tension in these muscles. After stretching consuming a meal replacement shake or healthy snack can help re-fuel your body enhancing recovery.

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Important: This content reflects information from various individuals and organizations and may offer alternative or opposing points of view. It should not be used for medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. As always, you should consult with your healthcare provider about your specific health needs.