Many fitness and wellness resources stress the importance of getting in a good workout. Often overlooked is recovery. Without proper recovery, you won't be fully prepared for your next session or reap the full benefits of your training. Smarter Recovery changes that, delivering evidence-based information and practical advice to effectively integrate this essential step into your routine.

Pete McCall, renowned personal trainer and author of the top-selling Smarter Workouts, cuts through the hype to explain what you really need to maximize your recovery and feel your best. With 58 exercises and stretches for recovery and mobility, Smarter Recovery breaks down the most effective tools, techniques, and methods, including these:
Massage stick
Foam roller
Percussion gun
Static stretching
Mobility exercises
Low-intensity strength exercises
You'll also learn the importance of nutrition and sleep in recovery and how to create a long-term plan to help you feel your best. Case studies further demonstrate how to use the information in applicable situations. Simply put, Smarter Recovery takes the guesswork out of the process to help everyone from fitness professionals to weekend warriors and fitness enthusiasts identify the most effective recovery methods for their needs.

Earn continuing education credits/units! A continuing education exam that uses this book is also available. It may be purchased separately or as part of a package that includes both the book and exam.


Part I. Recovery Explained

Chapter 1. Understanding the Need for Recovery
Learn how your body responds to different exercise demands. Use the information in this chapter to make recovery an integral part of every workout to maximize your fitness goals.

Chapter 2. Impact of Intensity
Understand the connection between exercise intensity and the body's need for repair so you can monitor intensity to allow for adequate recovery.

Chapter 3. Systems Overload
Optimize your body's natural recovery mechanisms and understand their response to stress on various internal systems.

Chapter 4. Recovery Methods
Choose the type of recovery method that works best for your body, your workouts, and your budget.

Chapter 5. Fascia and Foam Rolling
Explore the functions of fascia and the science behind maintaining healthy muscle development through tissue treatment.

Part II. Strategies for Optimal Recovery

Chapter 6. Immediate Recovery: The First 24 Hours
Use the nutritional and hydration strategies as well as physical techniques in this chapter to maximize the recovery window for immediate gains.

Chapter 7. The Day After a Workout: Exercises for Active Recovery
Embrace the relationship between soreness and strength while incorporating a variety of recovery tools and exercises into your training plan.

Part III. Plan for Recovery

Chapter 8. Long-Term Planning for Recovery
Develop a solid recovery plan that incorporates your goals and lifestyle for weeks, months, and years ahead.

Chapter 9. Healthy Habits to Promote Recovery
Ensure that your fitness and recovery habits become part of your lifestyle for the long term.