We can only hope to be as fit and healthy as our trainers. But, in the meantime, we can at least copy their post-workout habits. Shape spoke with some top fitness instructors and gathered some excellent post-workout tips.
Clean Up
Autumn Calabrese, creator of 21 Day Fix Extreme and celebrity trainer, told Shape, “As soon as I finish my foam rolling session, I head straight to the bathroom to wash my hands. Let’s be honest: even at the nicest gyms, the equipment is covered with sweat and germs. I don't want to start touching my phone, my face, my purse, or my steering wheel with dirty hands — that’s a surefire way to get sick." Related: The Bacteria That Cause Body Odor
Personal trainer Adam Rosante remembers to clean off the equipment, too. "Other than a whey protein shake, the most important thing I do post-workout is put all of the equipment back where I got it and wipe down any benches I was using,” he says. “Thoughtfulness, cleanliness, and courtesy go a long way in the gym." Stay Hydrated
A master instructor at Flywheel, Natalie Cohen, told Shape, "Whether I’m teaching or taking a class, I make sure to drink at least 16 ounces of electrolyte water immediately after.” This replenishment will help your recovery too, Cohen says, by thwarting symptoms like nausea or cramps.
Autumn Calabrese, creator of 21 Day Fix Extreme and celebrity trainer, told Shape, “As soon as I finish my foam rolling session, I head straight to the bathroom to wash my hands. Let’s be honest: even at the nicest gyms, the equipment is covered with sweat and germs. I don't want to start touching my phone, my face, my purse, or my steering wheel with dirty hands — that’s a surefire way to get sick." Related: The Bacteria That Cause Body Odor
Personal trainer Adam Rosante remembers to clean off the equipment, too. "Other than a whey protein shake, the most important thing I do post-workout is put all of the equipment back where I got it and wipe down any benches I was using,” he says. “Thoughtfulness, cleanliness, and courtesy go a long way in the gym." Stay Hydrated
A master instructor at Flywheel, Natalie Cohen, told Shape, "Whether I’m teaching or taking a class, I make sure to drink at least 16 ounces of electrolyte water immediately after.” This replenishment will help your recovery too, Cohen says, by thwarting symptoms like nausea or cramps.
Related: 10 Packaged Foods That Are Surprisingly Healthy
Socialize
Alison Grzyb, an SLT (Strengthen Lengthen Tone) instructor, recommends being social after a class. “Chit-chat with other people as you are packing up to head out,” she says. “The gym is where I met some of my best friends. When you get to know like-minded people, the increased motivation and support that you feel is incredible."
Socialize
Alison Grzyb, an SLT (Strengthen Lengthen Tone) instructor, recommends being social after a class. “Chit-chat with other people as you are packing up to head out,” she says. “The gym is where I met some of my best friends. When you get to know like-minded people, the increased motivation and support that you feel is incredible."
Related: The Reason Comfort Food Makes You Feel Better
Reflect
You just worked out! It’s an accomplishment in its own right. Samantha Datz, a Real Pilates instructor, likes to recognize the achievement. “After a workout, I reflect on how great I feel,” she says, “and how proud of myself I am for doing it despite all the odds that might be working against me that day.” Click through to Shape for more post-workout tips. (Shape)
Reflect
You just worked out! It’s an accomplishment in its own right. Samantha Datz, a Real Pilates instructor, likes to recognize the achievement. “After a workout, I reflect on how great I feel,” she says, “and how proud of myself I am for doing it despite all the odds that might be working against me that day.” Click through to Shape for more post-workout tips. (Shape)