What does regeneration mean?
Our body's regeneration is a process that begins both physically and mentally when we are subjected to significant (physical) exertion. Through our body's own regeneration, we are able to return to a normal state – with an improved level of fitness. Muscle recovery after exercise, in particular, is still an underestimated factor, often even more so in bodybuilding and the gym. Many young athletes believe that muscles grow by being "pumped up." However, this is false – supercompensation is the buzzword that is responsible for actual muscle growth.
Why is regeneration so important in strength training?
Strength training during exercise causes small tears in our muscles. These "micro-tears" usually manifest as muscle soreness (not always) or soreness, or muscle fatigue. After exertion or training, the body begins to repair these micro-tears during the recovery phase. Energy reserves are replenished, and the regeneration phase serves to heal muscle tissue after injuries. Energy stores are replenished, and training can begin again.
Tips to improve recovery in strength training?
- Dynamic stretching before training
- Static stretching after training
- Cold shower
- Sauna after training
- Regular rest periods
- Quickly available protein source + carbohydrates after training (fill glycogen stores)
- High-dose Omega-3 fish oil capsules
- Take electrolytes during your workout
- Vitamins and minerals in the post-workout shake
- Cool Down
What can you do for optimal regeneration?
Regeneration is a process that doesn't happen overnight. There's a rule of thumb that's been memorized in strength training:
- Large muscle groups require approximately 72 hours of recovery time
- Small muscle groups require approximately 48 hours of recovery time
However, these are only guidelines, as recovery time varies from person to person and depends on their lifestyle. However, there are several things you can do to speed up this recovery time. Depending on the intensity and severity of your muscle soreness, several things can help reduce muscle soreness and accelerate recovery:
- The diet is particularly rich in protein and with lots of vegetables for antioxidants and anti-inflammatory
- Omega-3 fatty acids in the form of fish oil capsules against inflammation
- Running training with easy running to promote the cardiovascular system and stimulate blood circulation.
- Give your body relaxation - ice shower or ice bath or sauna
- Avoid intensive training until muscle recovery is complete (as long as there is noticeable muscle soreness)
- Avoid alcohol or other harmful habits - the strain on the liver alone reduces the regeneration process when alcohol is consumed
- Include a rest day in your weekly routine (or more if needed)
- A good warm-up before training
What supplements improve recovery?
There are numerous supplements that can have a positive impact on recovery and regeneration. Protein, in particular, can have a significant impact on recovery after intense training sessions, but vitamins and minerals (both during and after training) are also optimal for ensuring nutrient supply.
How long does the regeneration process take?
Regeneration in the body is governed by highly complex processes. There are several types of regeneration, as muscles regenerate not only after a training session under high stress; this can take several days or even weeks (in the case of muscle injuries). Tendon and joint injuries, or injuries to passive structures, are more protracted and can last up to a year.
Can muscle soreness be harmful?
During intense training, muscles are strengthened by repairing micro-tears and expanding with new muscle mass through protein deposition. This allows for increased performance and higher training intensity.
Will my body perform better after recovery?
Generally, when it comes to training stimuli, proper recovery definitely improves performance. However, when it comes to serious injuries, the body needs more time.