As many runners know, a run takes more time than just the miles themselves. You have a pre-run warm-up and recovery nutrition - and so you may wonder if you really need a cooldown after your run, or if you can save some time there. In this episode, we answer a common listener question about what a cooldown after runs actually does - and if you need to do them. We break this discussion into a physiological explanation of what a cooldown does (and what a cooldown won’t achieve) and a practical explanation of how to apply effective cooldowns in your training. You will learn: ✅ What a cooldown after a run achieves - and what it doesn’t ✅ If you need to cool down after an easy run ✅ Why you don’t need to worry about flushing out “lactic acid” ✅ How cool down miles can improve your running performance ✅ Do you need to stretch for your cool down? ✅ How to cool down after an interval or tempo run ✅ Should you use an ice bath for a post-run cooldown? Thank you to our sponsors: ➡️ BodyBio: Research-backed, practitioner-trusted supplements. Use code AMANDA25 for 25% off at https://runtothefinish.com/bodybio/ ➡️ Tifosi: Follow link https://tifosiopticsinc.pxf.io/c/2475256/2888012/29284 for durable, budget-friendly, no-slip sunglasses! ➡️ Skratch: Follow the link Skratch Sample Pack and use code TREADLIGHTLY for 20% off your first purchase. Let’s stay connected: ➡️ Join our community at patreon.com/treadlightlyrunning ➡️ Tread Lightly Running Podcast on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/treadlightlyrunning / ➡️ Laura Norris Running on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/lauranorrisrunning/ ➡️ Hundreds of evidence-based training tips on Laura’s website: https://lauranorrisrunning.com/ ➡️ Run to the Finish on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/runtothefinish/?hl=en ➡️ Thousands of running gear reviews and training guides: https://runtothefinish.com/ References: 🤓 PMID: 39263899 🤓 PMID: 29663142
