daustin wrote:
Massage gun? Recovery boots? Foam roller? Compex?
I’ve just ordered a massage gun. I have recovery boots and compex but just find I never want to get them setup after a long workout. I wish I had a pain cave where I would just leave the recovery boots out and setup for use.
It depends on the activity. For general recovery, there are no 'tools' additionally required. Appropriate nutrition/hydration with extra protein for harder workouts in the vulnerable period immediately afterward is a given *(I usually aim for 30 gm 30-60 min afterwards)...and I will sometimes take a longer and warmer shower and stretch after shorter/faster efforts but this also doesn't fit in the toolbox. And enough rest, including sleep, prior to the next workout is also a given.
I do have 2 portable massage guns. Works quite well on the legs. I use them often. Also have a massage chair and one for the floor which I can work the PF out along with a tennis ball while watching TV. No recovery boots. DW (the wife) swears by her foam roller, but I hate it. I'd rather have her walk on my back to crack it and a nice bath works to loosen the muscles.
My favorite tool to hasten recovery is ice. I have ice packs loaded in the freezer and need them for my old knees/shins/ankles etc. Works well on tired, overworked muscles too. Also will do a modified 'ice bath' with really cold water from the shower-(legs down only*) for super long efforts. This has always helped recover from those wicked long trainer rides and I've done them after each of these: the mega Pretzel, uber Pretzel, PRL full and lots of Norseman races on Zwift.
I'll be doing it again tomorrow evening after our Basecamp ride...and again after v-Everesting next month...