The Do’s and Don’ts of Marathon Recovery
Two exercise experts—coach Scott Browning and physician-marathoner Mark Cucuzzella—lay out a practical do's-and-don'ts framework for the days immediately after a marathon, drawing on the author's own botched recovery after her 2015 debut. Key advice includes drinking only to thirst rather than over-hydrating, skipping NSAIDs like Advil in favor of Tylenol, avoiding aggressive foam rolling or deep tissue work on damaged muscle, taking up to 10 days off running, and resisting flashy recovery gimmicks like IV drips in favor of basics: fuel, hydrate, rest, and sleep. It closes on the point that celebrating the achievement—big meal, a drink, a day off work—is itself a legitimate part of recovery, not just an afterthought.