An amazing HIIT or cardio session will pump you up with enough endorphins to take on the day. But cardio sessions involving running, jumping, skipping, cycling, climbing all mean a rise in heart rate and basal body temperature, lots of sweating and loss of water. A good intake of nutritious food becomes just as important after a gruelling workout as good rest and stretching.
Along with having protein-rich foods to help muscle recovery, rehydration also plays a very vital role in lowering the temperature of the body, lubricating the joints, warding off muscle cramps and fatigue. Water, coupled with some other hydrating drinks can be a good fix for restoring hydration levels in the body and maximising the output of every workout. Read on to find out about some more hydrating drinks which are perfect post cardio:
Coconut Water
Rich in electrolytes like potassium, sodium and magnesium, fresh coconut water is the perfect way to replenish all the water content lost in a sweaty workout routine. Coconut water is great as a post-run or post-cycling drink because it also contains natural sugars which energise the body after a fatiguing workout.
Lemon Juice
Freshly squeezed lemon juice and water mixed with a pinch of pink salt is the simplest hydrating drink to sip on post an intense cardio session. Lemon is rich in vitamin C and electrolytes like sodium and potassium which help to revitalise the body and pump it with energy. Lemon juice also helps to cool the body and ward off tiredness.
Chocolate Milk
Chocolate milk is rich in carbohydrates which makes it the perfect drink to have post workout in order to replenish all the lost glycogen. It also has a generous helping of electrolytes that can help to refuel depleted energy sources and give the body the required sustenance to feel energetic and rejuvenated even after a tiring workout.
Vegetable Juices
Containing all things healthy, vegetable juices are rich in minerals, antioxidants and vitamins and not only provide the body with essential nutrients but also hydrate it after a gruelling cardio session. Green juices or beetroot and carrot juices boost muscle recovery too and make for an ideal post-workout rehydration drink because of their multiple health benefits.
Unsweetened Tea
Having a hydrating glass of warm, antioxidant-rich tea wards off fatigue after a sweaty exercise routine. Tea flavoured with ginger or chamomile also has a very calming and relaxing effect on the body. Naturally rich in antioxidants, it helps in reducing overall muscle soreness and boosts recovery. Pick a decaf variety of black or green tea for maximum benefit because caffeine can cause further dehydration.