What Is Your Go-To Recovery Method?

Recovery has often been called the fourth discipline of triathlon, but it’s a topic that can be as divisive as it is scientific. When training is only one part of the equation—and recovering from training is just as important—it’s no surprise triathletes get a little hot under the collar discussing their go-to recovery method and preferred forms of R&R.

While Triathlete.com was out shooting a video on recovery earlier this week (stay tuned for the finished product, coming soon!) we shared a few fun insights from the shoot on our Instagram stories. We also asked you, our audience, how YOU like to recover. Whoah! The sheer number and diversity of your responses blew our minds, so much so we thought we’d share the results with you here.

We asked: “What’s your go-to recovery method?” And you said…

Sleep 27%
Foam Roller 19%
Normatecs 12%
Beer (!) 10%
Ice Bath 5%
Active recovery training 3%
Theragun/percussive therapy 3%
Compression socks/apparel 3%

And the best of the rest included:
Eating
CBD products
Epsom salt baths
Cupping
Sauna
Cold shower
Yoga

During the course of the video shoot, the Triathlete.com team tested a variety of recovery products from top-end gear such as the Normatec Pulse 2.0 and the Theragun, to weird DIY options, such as a car buffer. We also looked at cheaper alternatives for go-to recovery methods, such as compression gear and foam rollers, as well as “natural” options, like jumping into a cold creek post-ride or relaxing listening to music with your legs elevated. One thing’s for sure: there are a ton of options out there—and once you find your go-to recovery method, you stick to it!