Recovery defined

Good stress vs bad stress

Remember there are a couple of key features that differentiate good from bad stress.

• Good stress builds you up; bad stress breaks you down.

• Good stress is short and intense; bad stress is chronic and ongoing.

The hormonal and physiological changes that happen in a single workout are good… if that workout is reasonably short and not too tough, and if you recover properly afterwards.


Recovery is a mind and body game. For example:

• Prioritize proper sleep.

• Eliminate mental stressors such as self-criticism.

• Visualize problem solving and positive outcomes.

• Relax and chill out. Focus on the big picture instead of "wondering and worrying" about small details.

• Anticipate, plan, strategize. Be proactive and prepared for problem solving.

• Build a supportive environment. Ask for help.

• Tune in to your body signals.

• Follow an appropriately planned, intelligently varied, fitness plan — don’t beat the heck out of yourself at every workout, and don’t do the same thing every time. Mix it up, focus on good form, and stay mobile.