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Picture this: You've just hit the gym.
You're feeling pumped, and your body's never looked this good! It's a great feeling - but you're not out of the woods yet.
The next step is to shower and get ready for the day. The question is - do you know how to get the most out of your post-workout shower?
It turns out taking a shower after your workout is about more than a quick soak in some hot water. You need to take steps to ensure your body benefits from one of the most critical stages of a workout routine.
Here's how.
When Should You Shower After A Workout?
If we're thinking about recovery - you must take 5-10 minutes to 'warm down' before hitting the shower.
If you've given it your all, chances are you'll be pretty sweaty after a workout. Your muscles ache, your heart rate's up, and that refreshing shower has never looked more inviting.
Hold up a second. Before you jump straight in, you need to think - 'Is this the best thing for my body?'
That depends. If you've had an intense workout and not taken time to cool down, hitting the shower won't be that beneficial.
Take it easy and warm down for 5 minutes or so. That way, your muscles can relax before you expose them to the temperature of your shower.
Cold Or Hot Shower After A Workout?
For the best results, start your shower at a cool temperature and slowly decrease it over a few minutes.
We all love a hot, steamy shower. The warm water feels great on your skin and helps to soothe those aching muscles.
However, a cold shower could be more beneficial for muscular recovery. According to a 2013 study, cold water showers help muscles recover after exercise.
A word of warning: jumping straight into a cold shower can hurt your body. The shock of the cold water can cause your muscles to cramp up and your heart rate to go through the roof. Ensure you take it slow and reduce the temperature gradually.
Best Post-Workout Men's Shower Routine
After a workout, the purpose of a shower is to help your muscles cool down and relax. That's why it's essential to have a planned routine when it comes to your post-workout showers.
Unsure where to start? Try following this easy routine for when you shower after a workout:
- Finish your workout and spend 5-10 minutes performing cool-down exercises. The goal is to decrease your heart rate and let your muscles start to relax.
- Set your shower at a cool temperature to avoid shocking your body with freezing water. Enter your shower and decrease the temperature as your body relaxes.
- Use shower products to rinse away sweat and bacteria from your skin. You should still feel your heart rate decreasing.
- Use a natural body scrub that prevents bacne and exfoliates dead skin cells.
- In the final minute or so, reduce the temperature even further. Make it as cold as you can stand. Focus the blast of cold water on your aching muscles to help them recover.
- Use a soft towel to dry off while massaging any muscles still causing aches and pains.
- Apply a high-quality, natural body moisturizer that treats dry, flaky skin.
Should You Use Body Wash After A Workout?
Using a bar of soap isn't going to cut it when taking a post-workout shower.
The aim is to let your muscles recover - so only the best products will give you the results you need. What's the point in working out only to use a soap that could damage your skin?
Our natural body wash doesn't dry your skin like many other brands. That's because we don't use alcohol in our products. Our cleanser also contains Aloe Vera Leaf Juice which can help heal, soothe and cleanse the skin and body.
Do You Need A Post-Workout Skincare Routine?
Showering after your workout isn't the only important part of your post-exercise routine. You've also got to consider your skin.
Sweat is a sign that you've had a great workout session. Yet, it can also be harmful to your skin if left to sit on your face and body. That's why it's vital to wash it off straight after a workout - get that sweat off your skin before it causes breakouts!
Always ensure to moisturize after washing - this will help replace your body’s natural oils and keep your skin younger for longer.
It's also important to rejuvenate your skin after cleansing. Your pores go through a lot of stress during a sweaty workout. Applying a Vitamin C face serum is a great way to soothe your pores and avoid an overly red complexion. And don't forget to use an aluminum-free deodorant that won't cause any burns and itchiness under your armpit!
