Runners: What exercise do you do the day after a long run?

Amy_B

I ran 8 miles yesterday. I was planning on complete body strength and a HIIT workout today, but I didn't know my legs would be so sore. I'm not really into Pilates or yoga. What do you do?

carajo

i focus on upper body and abs...yesterday i did a 50 mile bike ride, today i did p90x shoulders and triceps and ab ripper x...give those legs a rest for a day!

ChRiStA_1983

I typically take a rest day after my long run....Or I do a cross-training activity that isn't too strenuous on the legs...Or I'll walk on the treadmill (rather than run)....

FunRun08

I would do an upper body workout, maybe a solid chore workout. Its probably good to give you legs a break.

jeff261159

i do nothing after a running day, its good to let the body recover

stephanierae2804

I'm not really into pilates/yoga either, but I always bike and then do one or the other - I've found it really stopped me from becoming injured throughout my entire marathon training.

dragonflydi

I agree, upper body, abs, core ... legs probably need a breather ... but stretching for them would be excellent.

arc918

I usually run (SLOW) to recover from running. Sounds counter intuitive, but it works for me. Elliptical is good for recovery as well - get the muscles moving without any pounding.