Build Recovery to Boost Your Workout Routine

MISSION, KS--(Marketwired - Aug 22, 2013) - (Family Features) 'Tis the season for fall high school sports. After weeks of two-a-day practices and tough games, it's important for young athletes to give it a rest to stay healthy. Experts agree, it's important to allow optimal recovery time after each game or practice session, stretching your muscles and hydrating while getting plenty of protein to stay strong.

During a strenuous workout or game, muscle fibers can fray and become damaged. Follow these five steps for a successful season:

Pump up protein: After a workout, athletes need a combination of carbohydrates and protein to replenish and help rebuild muscles. Follow the 2:1 ratio rule to make sure you have the right calibration for optimal absorption of protein. The quickest way to get a proper amount of carbohydrates and protein is through a recovery drink, like Rockin' Refuel Muscle Recovery, which is made with real milk and provides 20 grams of natural, high-quality protein.

Stretch it out: Even if you are sore, gentle stretching is a must after a tough workout or intense game. It can improve circulation, increase range of motion, decrease muscle tension and help prevent joint stiffness. A good stretching routine can take as little as 10 minutes. Remember to avoid over-stretching and stop if you feel any pain or discomfort.

Stay hydrated: You hear it all the time, but it's important to stay hydrated before, during and after a workout game or practice session. During exercise, when your body loses fluid and electrolytes through sweat, it is crucial to get the extra eight ounces experts recommend athletes drink for every 15 minutes of activity. Drinking low-fat chocolate milk, like Rockin' Refuel Muscle Recovery, after exercise not only provides the carbohydrates and protein needed to refuel and repair muscles, it also helps replenish fluids and electrolytes (such as calcium, magnesium and potassium) that are lost in sweat. For more information, visit www.rockinrefuel.com.

Rub it out and ice it down: Some athletes pack on the ice bags as soon as they are done with a game or workout. This helps reduce swelling and tames soreness. Pack ice on sore muscles and wrap them with plastic wrap to conform to the muscles in need. Also consider investing in a high-quality foam roller.

Rest is another important item every athlete should add to their workout routine. It not only provides a mental break, but also allows the body time to mend and repair frayed muscle. Cut rest, recovery, nutrition, hydration or stretching out of your exercise plan and your performance is sure to suffer.

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