Active recovery refers to a low intensity exercise following a more intense workout with the goal of facilitating muscle recovery and reducing post exercise muscle soreness and stiffness.
Examples include walking, swimming, biking, stretching, and yoga.
What are some potential benefits of active recovery?
Promotes increased oxygen rich blood flow which aids in muscle recovery and repair, and helps with the removal of waste products such as lactic acid.
Reduces musle stiffness.
May help improve range of motion and flexibility.
Big picture - rest does not have to mean that you are sedentary!
Get moving and stay moving, but reduce the intensity of activity to allow for recovery to take place.