Thereâs one thing many people forget when it comes to training and progress. And thatâsÂ
recovery
.
I like to compare it to fuel in a car. You would never drive off with an empty tank, right? So why do we ignore our bodyâs signals and keep going even when our energy is completely drained? The body works just like a car â without enough fuel and maintenance, it will eventually stop.
My own journey toward better recovery
Over the years, Iâve become much better at giving myself the best conditions to recover. I take an extra rest day when I need it. I might swap a heavy gym session for a walk in nature if I feel tired. And most importantly â I make sure to eat enough so my body can rebuild and get stronger.
And you know what? It has made anÂ
enormous difference
 to my results.
Even though I train less than before, I get more out of it. Iâm stronger, have more energy, and Iâm faster than I was when I refused to miss a single workout. More recovery hasnât slowed my progress â itâs actually boosted it.
Why is recovery so important?
When we train, we break the body down. Itâs duringÂ
rest and recovery
 that the body rebuilds itself stronger than before â thatâs when the results happen. Without recovery, the effect of training is lost, and the risk of injuries, overtraining, and fatigue increases.
đ§ Facts about recovery:
Recovery can beÂ
active
 (e.g. light walking, mobility work, yoga) orÂ
passive
 (rest, sleep, relaxation).
Recovery improves muscle growth, endurance, and mental clarity.
Studies show that lack of recovery can lead to a weakened immune system, hormonal imbalance, and increased risk of injuries.
Stress without enough recovery can reduce sleep quality and negatively affect your mood.
đŽ Facts about sleep:
Sleep is the bodyâs most important recovery tool.
Adults should sleepÂ
7â9 hours per night
 for optimal function.
During deep sleep, growth hormones are released, which are essential for muscle repair.
Too little sleep affects more than just training â it can also lead to poorer memory, concentration, and mood.
đš Signs your body needs more recovery:
You feel constantly tired, even though youâre sleeping.
Your workouts feel harder than usual.
You lose motivation or feel unusually low.
You often get small injuries or catch colds more easily.
Your sleep becomes light, or you have trouble falling asleep.
Do you recognize yourself in any of these points? Then itâs time to listen to your body.
Tips â Give your body what it needs
Are you someone who easily forgets about recovery? Then I really want to highlightÂ
Livityâs recovery sessions
. Instead of pushing through a heavy gym workout when your energy is low â turn on Livity on your TV and join a calm, restorative session.
Why not finish with a warm bath or a big cup of tea? I promise â youâll feel like a whole new person.
âš Remember:
Recovery isnât âcheatingâ or being lazy. Itâs aÂ
strategy to feel better, perform better, and achieve better results
.
Your body does an amazing job every single day. Give it the chance to catch up.
Try my colleague Jenniferâs calming & relaxing yoga sessions â perfect for recovery!