You just finished a great workout, and you’re feeling pretty good. Whether you showed that treadmill who was boss or strengthened your core, now you’re ready to head for the gym door. Wait! Not so fast! What you do after a workout is just as important as the workout itself, and it’s easy to derail all the hard work if you aren’t careful. Read on for five things you should never do after a workout.
1. Not Eating
It’s important to have a snack — one that features carbs and protein — within an hour of your workout. Your body needs the energy to repair and refuel itself.
2. Neglecting Your Water Bottle
Your body needs to replenish the water it stores in order to stay hydrated, so make sure you drink two to three cups in the hours right after your workout.
3. Touching Your Face
Rubbing your eyes or touching your face after a workout can spread bacteria, since gyms are not always the cleanest of places. Wash your hands, wipe your face with a towel and wipe down machines after you’re done with them.
4. Staying in Sweaty Clothes
Those yoga pants might be super comfortable, but not changing out of your sweaty workout clothes can lead to yeast infections or body acne. Shower and change as soon as you can, and if you have to run errands after the gym, stay away from cotton, which traps in moisture.
5. Forgetting to Cool Down
The last thing you may want to do after a five-mile run on the treadmill is walk for another five minutes, but taking the time to cool down lets your heart rate and blood pressure return to normal and prevents venous pooling (the buildup of blood in the veins). Plus, it feels nice and helps get rid of that “jelly leg” sensation.