To Hot Tub or Not to Hot Tub after your Run

Sounds so appealing doesn’t it? I, for one have been guilty of the simple pleasure of a hot tub soak after a hard run, thinking that it feels so good, it must be good for you.
But exercise physiologist, Kelli Calabrese, warns that heat hinders the process of repair that your body needs after a run. The high temperature of the hot tub increases the body’s blood flow which can cause the muscle inflammation to worsen. And if that’s not warning enough, think about how dehydrated you can become in a hot tub. Chances are that you are already experiencing some mild dehydration from your run, which again that hot soak will make worse.
Does that mean no hot tub?
No, but here’s the recommendation – Cool down before your hot tub. Have the coolest shower your body will allow which will help to reduce the muscle inflammation. Drink lots of water. Then after an hour or so – indulge!

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