How to recover muscles faster after workout

In a perfect world, I'd end a workout feeling energized, my face glistening with dewy sweat. I'd have plenty of time for cool-down exercises and be able to zen out with a few yoga poses.

Then I'd sip on a delicious smoothie with just the right balance of protein and carbs, and waltz straight into the shower stocked with all my favorite bath products.

In reality, most workouts leave me taxed with a red face, dripping sweat, and in a hurry—to put it mildly.

Recovery time after exercise

I may bend down to touch my toes and call it a wrap on my "cooldown stretches" before jumping into a cold shower and leaving for the day with an empty stomach and wet hair. Not exactly the poster child for what to do after a workout.

The perfect post-gym routine is easier said than done, but if you're left wondering what to do after a workout or what to do first if you have limited time, there's help. First, know that the first 30 minutes or so after a workout are usually just as important as the workout itself.

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