Here at FITAID, we feel strongly about a few things: No artificial sweeteners, clean caffeine, quality ingredients and Sports Recovery. You spend so much time in the gym, at work, and showing up for the people around you, that you have to spend the time to recharge and recover.
As the sun sets on another transformative year, we find ourselves reflecting on the incredible journey we've embarked on together. In 2023, we began the Sports Recovery Sunday newsletter to provide weekly tips, tricks and more to help you maximize your recovery and show up as your best, everyday. We believe that the definitive way to boost your performance is to focus on your recovery: physically, mentally and emotionally. How you show up for yourself is how you show up for the rest of the world, and we’re honored to be a small part of it. In this dynamic era of ever-evolving knowledge, we invite you to join us in a retrospective journey through the year's top-clicked resources.
As we unravel what caught your eye on a scroll through your inbox, we're excited to continue to grow together in 2024. The data trails left by your clicks serve as breadcrumbs, guiding us and shaping our understanding of how we can best provide you with the resources you need to succeed.
- TOP 5 RECIPES
- TOP 5 SONGS
- TOP 5 TOOLS
RAVE-WORTHY RECIPES
Protein Pancakes
Featured in SRS # 14
There's nothing quite like waking up on a Sunday morning to the smell of pancakes (even if you have to make them yourself). This recipe is loaded with protein to keep you full and maintain the gainz.
Chicken StirFry
Featured in SRS #15
Throw in veggies, your choice of protein and toss in some sauce for a delicious dinner recipe. It also serves as a great leftover lunch option!
Honey Chipotle Salmon Bowls
Featured in SRS #6
A little sweet, a little spice, and a whole lot of yummy. Level up your cooking skills with this delcious honey chipotle salmon recipe. Served with rice and a cucumber, avocado mixture. Delish!
DIY Protein Cider Doughnuts
Featured in SRS #41
A Fall time favorite: apple cider doughnuts! These homemade treats are a healthier alternative to the sugary doughnut you'd grab at the cider mill, or apple orchard. Packing double the protein and half the calories this recipe is a must try!
Breakfast Egg Muffins
Featured in SRS #33
Perfect for the school year, or commuters, these on-the-go egg muffins are the perfect mix of convenience and nutrition. Say goodbye to morning chaos and hello to hassle-free mornings.
MOST VIEWED SONGS
"Honey" by Kehlani
Featured in SRS #14
"Reasons" - Khalid
Featured in SRS #15
"Springsteen" - Eric Church
Featured in SRS #33
"Saturday Sun" - Vance Joy
Featured in SRS #13
"Sunset Lover" - Petit Biscuit
Featured in SRS #6
TOP CLICKED TOOLS
Recovery Shoes
Featured in SRS #15
Do you know the full impact your shoes have on how the rest of how your body feels? You might be surprised... Check out some of the below recovery footwear to give your feet some love. Have another favorite? Let us know!
Books about Habits
Featured in SRS #41
Habits are the small steps that lead to big transformations. Good habits are crucial to leading a healthy lifestyle. If you're having trouble forming healthy habits, these books are a great place to start! They breakdown building routines and behaviors AND most importantly, staying consistent.
The Power of Habit by Charles Duhigg
7 Habits of Highly Effective People by Stephen R Covey & Sean Covey
Magnesium Lotions
Featured in SRS #33
Lather up! Magnesium lotions aide in relaxation, muscle recovery, and promote overall well-being. The quick absorption helps replenish your body's magnesium levels while nourishing your skin.
Gua Sha
Featured in SRS #39
Face Gua Sha blew up on Tik Tok as a way to chisel chins, but did you know it actually has health benefits? A tool for lymphatic drainage, gua sha works similarly to muscle scraping to promote circulation, reduce inflammation, and relieve muscle tension.
Blue Light Glasses
Featured in SRS #2
What are you go-to recipes? What songs do you chill out to? What is your favorite music genre for productivity? Do you have a recovery tool you swear by? Let us know over on Instagram!
Whether you're an athlete or simply someone leading an active lifestyle, giving your body the time and care it needs to recover is crucial for long-term health and optimal performance. Let’s explore the reasons why recovery holds such significance and how it contributes to overall well-being.
Muscle Regeneration
During physical exercise, our muscles undergo stress and micro-tears, which are essential for strength and growth. These muscles repair and actually grow during the recovery phase. Adequate rest allows your body to rebuild damaged tissues, replenish energy, and optimize protein synthesis.
Prevent Injury
Ignoring recovery results in increased risk of injury. Overtraining or failing to allow your body to heal can lead to chronic fatigue, weakened immune function, and musculoskeletal imbalances. By incorporating appropriate rest periods into your training routine, you reduce the likelihood of overuse injuries, stress fractures, and other ailments associated with excessive strain on the body.
Improve Performance
Contrary to popular belief, pushing yourself harder and longer isn't always the path to improved performance. Recovery plays a fundamental role in optimizing athletic abilities. Rest allows the body's systems, such as the cardiovascular and nervous systems, to recuperate and adapt to the demands placed upon them during exercise. This regeneration of energy, repair of muscle fibers, and restoration of hormonal balance ultimately enhances strength, speed, endurance, and overall athletic performance.
Mental Wellness
Physical activity doesn't just exert a toll on the body; it affects the mind as well. Intense workouts and training schedules can lead to mental fatigue and burnout. Incorporating recovery time helps alleviate stress, promotes relaxation, and restores mental clarity. It provides an opportunity to unwind, rejuvenate, and foster a healthy mindset, ultimately leading to increased motivation and enjoyment in physical pursuits.
Remember: recovery encompasses more than just taking days off from training. It includes prioritizing quality sleep and nourishing your body with proper nutrition. Sleep is vital for the body's restorative processes, hormone regulation, and cognitive function. A well-balanced diet that includes sufficient macronutrients, micronutrients, and hydration supports tissue repair, replenishes energy stores, and aids in optimal recovery.
In the pursuit of athletic excellence or maintaining an active lifestyle, it is imperative to recognize the significance of recovery. Making time for rest, sleep, and proper nutrition allows your body to repair, rebuild, and adapt. Prioritizing recovery not only prevents injuries but also enhances physical performance and mental well-being. So, remember to listen to your body, incorporate rest days, and embrace recovery as an integral part of your journey to a healthier, fitter, and more fulfilling life.
Looking for ways to improve your own recovery? Start by cracking open a can of FITAID and checking out some of our other blog posts on recovery methods & modalities:
5 Essential Active Recovery Tricks
Active Recovery - A Good Reason to Take it Easy
Walk it Off! The Benefits of a Post-WOD Walk.
Why is Stretching Important for Post-Workout Recovery?
Yoga as a Tool for Sports Recovery
Why Do I Need to Use a Foam Roller in my Post-Workout Recovery?
Muscle Scrapers for Post-Workout Recovery
Can Gratitude Help my Fitness Routine & Athletic Performance?
Stay Salty. Epsom salts for Sports Recovery
The truth about Epsom Salts for Post-workout Recovery.
What are Epsom Salts?
Epsom salt, also known as magnesium sulfate, is a naturally-occurring mineral that has been used for centuries for its various health benefits. It is named after the town of Epsom in England, where it was first discovered in natural springs. But what exactly is it, and how does it work? And, more importantly, is it really good for you post-workout?
First, let's talk about what epsom salt is. It is a combination of two minerals, magnesium and sulfate, which are both essential for human health. Magnesium plays a crucial role in over 300 enzymatic reactions in the body, including regulating muscle and nerve function, blood sugar levels, and blood pressure. Sulfates, on the other hand, are responsible for flushing toxins out of the body and improving the absorption of nutrients. Together, these minerals make epsom salt a powerful tool for promoting overall health and wellness.
How do Epsom Salts work?
Epsom salt works by being absorbed through the skin when it is dissolved in water. This process allows the magnesium and sulfates to enter the body and begin their beneficial work. Magnesium helps to relax muscles and nerves, while sulfates work to flush out toxins and improve nutrient absorption. This makes epsom salt an effective post-workout remedy for sore muscles and aching joints.
Are Epsom Salts the same as Bath Salts?
It is important to note that epsom salt is not the same as bath salts. Bath salts are often used for recreational purposes and can be harmful if used improperly. Epsom salt, on the other hand, is a naturally-occurring mineral that is safe for use in bathwater.
All that salt making you thirsty?
In addition to epsom salt, another great post-workout choice is FitAid Energy. This energy drink is specially formulated to provide the perfect balance of nutrients to help your body recover after a workout. It contains no sodium, since your diet more than likely contains enough of your daily sodium needs, and is naturally sweetened with no sucralose or aspartame or Ace-K. All of which are artificial sweeteners that may be harmful to your health. FitAid Energy also uses clean caffeine from green tea extract, which is a natural source of caffeine.
Why does it matter that FITAID Energy is naturally sweetened?
Being naturally sweetened is important in an energy drink because artificial sweeteners can have negative effects on your health. They have been linked to a variety of health problems, including cancer, obesity, and diabetes. Natural sweeteners, on the other hand, are derived from natural sources and are less likely to cause harm.
Why does it matter that FITAID Energy contains natural caffeine?
The importance of natural caffeine also lies in its effects on the body. Natural caffeine is derived from natural sources like green tea and is unlikely to cause side effects such as jitters, anxiety, and insomnia. It also has been shown to provide additional benefits such as antioxidant properties.
SUMMARY:
In conclusion, epsom salt is a safe and effective way to promote post-workout recovery. It is a naturally-occurring mineral that is absorbed through the skin and provides a variety of health benefits. FitAid Energy is also a great post-workout remedy, providing the perfect balance of nutrients to help your body recover. It is naturally sweetened and uses clean caffeine from green tea extract, making it a healthy and safe alternative to other energy drinks.
References:
"Magnesium: Essential for Life, but Underconsumed" by the Office of Dietary Supplements
"The truth about Epsom salt" by Dr. Andrew Weil
What's the deal with diffusers?
Why should you consider using diffusers in your post-workout recovery routine?
The use of diffusers and essential oils has become increasingly popular in recent years for their various health benefits, including aiding in recovery from physical activity and stress.
In this post, we will explore the benefits of using essential oils for recovery and recommend some of the best oils to use for this purpose. We will also introduce FITAID Sports Recovery.
It is a delicious and effective way to relax and recover from a crushing WOD, a resolution run, or any sweat-inducing gym session.
But first, let's take a look at what diffusers and essential oils are and how they work.
What are Diffusers and Essential Oils?
Diffusers are devices that disperse essential oils into the air as a fine mist. The oils are then inhaled, allowing the user to reap the therapeutic benefits of the oils. There are various types of diffusers available, including ultrasonic, nebulizing, and heat diffusers.
Essential oils are concentrated plant extracts that are obtained through a process called distillation. They are called "essential" because they contain the essence of the plant's aroma and flavor. Each essential oil has its own unique blend of chemical constituents, which give it its distinct scent and therapeutic properties.
Benefits of Using Essential Oils for Recovery
Essential oils have been used for centuries for their therapeutic properties and are believed to have a number of benefits when it comes to recovery from physical activity and stress. Some of the benefits of using essential oils for recovery may include:
Reducing muscle soreness and fatigue: Certain essential oils, such as peppermint, eucalyptus, and ginger, have anti-inflammatory and pain-relieving properties that may help reduce muscle soreness and fatigue.
Improving sleep: Many essential oils, such as lavender, chamomile, and frankincense, have a calming effect on the body and can help improve sleep quality. This is especially important for recovery, as sleep is when the body repairs and rejuvenates itself.
Boosting the immune system: Some essential oils, such as tea tree and eucalyptus, are believed to have antimicrobial properties that can help boost the immune system and protect against infections.
Reducing stress and anxiety: Essential oils like lavender, bergamot, and ylang-ylang are known for their calming and anxiety-reducing effects, making them useful for relieving stress and promoting relaxation.
Best Oils for Recovery
Here are some of the best essential oils to use for recovery:
Peppermint: This oil has been tied to anti-swelling, inflammation reduction and pain-relieving properties that can help reduce muscle soreness and fatigue. It is also refreshing and invigorating, making it a great choice for post-workout recovery.
Eucalyptus: This oil has analgesic properties that can help reduce muscle soreness and fatigue. It is also believed to have antimicrobial properties, making it useful for boosting the immune system.
Ginger: This oil has anti-inflammatory and pain-relieving properties that may help reduce muscle soreness and fatigue. It is also believed to have antioxidant properties, making it useful for protecting against free radical damage.
Lavender: This oil has a calming and relaxing effect on the body, making it useful for reducing stress and improving sleep quality. It is also believed to have analgesic properties, which can help reduce muscle soreness and fatigue.
Chamomile: This oil has a calming and relaxing effect on the body, making it useful for reducing stress and improving sleep quality. ItFrankincense: This oil has a calming and grounding effect on the body, making it useful for reducing stress and improving sleep quality. It is also believed to have anti-inflammatory properties, which can help reduce muscle soreness and fatigue.
Tea tree: This oil has antimicrobial properties, making it useful for boosting the immune system and protecting against infections. It is also believed to help reduce muscle soreness and fatigue.
Bergamot: This oil has a calming and uplifting effect on the body, making it useful for reducing stress and anxiety. It is also believed to have analgesic properties, which can help reduce muscle soreness and fatigue.
Ylang-ylang: This oil has a calming and relaxing effect on the body, making it useful for reducing stress and anxiety. It is also believed to have analgesic properties, which can help reduce muscle soreness and fatigue.
FITAID Sports Recovery: A Delicious and Effective Way to Relax and Recover
In addition to using essential oils for recovery, there are other ways to promote relaxation and recovery everyday . One such way is by using FITAID Sports Recovery, a delicious and effective way to relax and recover.
FITAID Sports Recovery is a nutrient-rich drink that contains a blend of vitamins, minerals, and amino acids that are designed to support recovery from physical activity and everyday stress. It is also flavored with natural flavors and sweeteners, never any aspartame or sucralose - which give FITAID a refreshing and uplifting taste.
In conclusion, the use of diffusers and essential oils can be a powerful tool for aiding in recovery from physical activity and stress. There are a number of essential oils that are particularly useful for this purpose, including peppermint, eucalyptus, ginger, lavender, chamomile, frankincense, tea tree, bergamot, and ylang-ylang. In addition to using essential oils, FITAID Sports Recovery is a delicious and effective way to relax and recover!