The Best Way to Cool Down After Strength Training

After a tough workout, there's nothing better than giving your muscles and mind a little R&R. I recently chatted with Eoin Finn of Blissology Yoga at Wanderlust Whistler about the poses he suggests after a tough strength-training workout.

Eoin says it's important to start with something dynamic before heading into full chill-out mode. This way, your nervous system has time to switch gears from "the fight-or-flight to rest-and-digest mode." When you do the poses in this order, you'll leave your workout feeling energized, focused, and refreshed. Eoin suggests starting with three standing postures and then hitting the floor for an additional three. Be sure to breathe deep and link your breath with movement to make the most of your stretching session

 

 

Release tension in your hip flexors and psoas with this common stretch. If it is difficult for you to swing your leg up to the above position, start on your hands and knees, then extend your back leg in the lunge position.

• Starting in a plank position, bring your left foot up and around and to the outside of your left hand.
• Hold for five seconds, and bring the foot back into the plank position. Repeat this movement on your right side.
• Complete 10 reps on each leg.

Seated Forward Bend brings a deep stretch to the back of your legs. Instead of leading with your head, move your chest toward your toes to get the biggest benefit.

• After your Seated Spinal Twist, sit on your mat with your legs extended straight in front of you (your starting position from the last pose).
• Reach your hands underneath your tush, and pull the fleshy part behind you so your pelvic bones are grounded. This will help to tilt your tailbone up so you get a deeper stretch in your hamstrings.
• Focus on sitting up tall and making your spine as long as you can. Take a deep inhale, and extend the crown of your head straight up away from your hips, elongating your spine as much as possible.
• Slowly hinge at your hips, lowering your torso toward your thighs. Maintain a straight back, and fold as far as you need to feel a nice stretch in your back and hamstrings. Don't worry about folding your body completely in half, unless this is comfortable for you.
• Stay like this for at least five deep breaths.