Stretching and Recovery – why bother?

Engaging in regular trips around the circuit offers a multitude of benefits, but it’s equally crucial to pay attention to the cool-down phase. The 30 Minute Hit Recovery Zone provides a space where not only your muscles get some love, but your emotional recovery gets taken care of too.

As your heart pumps vigorously during a Hit sesh, it’s essential to guide it back to a steady rhythm afterward. This is where stretching plays a vital role. Not only does it help your heart return to its normal rate in a healthy manner, but it also tackles the aftermath of exercise-induced lactic acid production. Stretching works likes a secret weapon against the accumulation of lactic acid, known for causing those post-workout muscle aches. Beyond just soothing soreness, proper stretching also acts as a preventive measure, reducing the strain on your muscles and joints. By keeping your muscles flexible and toned, you’re essentially creating a shield against potential injuries.

One of my favourite benefits of taking time to recover after a Hit, however, is the social time! To me, there is nothing else like catching my breath over a good stretch, and chatting with my fellow sisters in sweat. With visual aids for relevant and effective post-Hit stretches, as well as instructions how to optimize the glorious foam roller to further your recovery, stretching becomes simple and efficient and provides the perfect opportunity to debrief with your buddies about your workout, and enjoy celebrating your successes together. Proper recovery time helps solidify the rejuvunated state of your heart, lungs and muscles, as well as your mental clarity and focus.

Your body and your brain just worked very hard for you for 30 minutes – a few more spent in gentle recovery will benefit you wholly throughout your fitness journey. So while you enjoy the convenience and efficiency of “express fitness” at the Hit, be sure to take a few extra minutes when you can to allow the full benefits to soak in, stretch out, and sustain your body, mind, and spirit until your next workout.

See you on the mats!


– Kristi