Cryosauna

Cryotherapy, or the use of a cryosauna, involves immersing the body in extremely cold temperatures for several minutes, typically using a nitrogen vapor. This therapy has been found to have numerous beneficial effects on the human body, including helping marathon runners recover after a race.

During a marathon, a runner's muscles undergo significant stress and strain, leading to micro-injuries and inflammation. Cryotherapy can help alleviate this inflammation by constricting blood vessels and reducing blood flow to the affected area. This, in turn, helps to reduce swelling and promote healing.

Additionally, cold temperatures help numb the pain and reduce muscle soreness after a marathon. Also, the cryosauna helps increase circulation and oxygenation to the body, enhancing the body's ability to recover quickly and restore energy levels.

Regularly using cryotherapy sessions can help marathon runners improve their overall performance by reducing inflammation and muscle soreness and enhancing muscle recovery.

Floatation Therapy

There is evidence to suggest that sensory deprivation flotation therapy can be beneficial for marathon runners. This therapy involves floating in a tank filled with warm water and Epsom salts, which creates a sense of weightlessness and allows for complete relaxation.

One of the ways that this therapy can help runners is by reducing the impact of the stresses and strains that come with intense training regimens. By providing a weightless environment, flotation therapy allows the body to completely release any tension and muscle soreness, which can then improve recovery time.

Moreover, the sensory deprivation aspect of this therapy may also be helpful for runners who need to improve their mental focus. By eliminating external distractions and stimuli, the mind can enter a state of deep relaxation, improving focus and concentration. This can be especially useful for long-distance runners who need to maintain mental stamina during races.

Infrared Sauna

Halotherapy

Halotherapy, or salt therapy, involves being in an environment filled with salt particles that are said to have therapeutic effects. While there is limited scientific evidence to support the effectiveness of halotherapy, some runners believe it can be beneficial for improving respiratory function and reducing inflammation.

For a marathon runner, an improvement in respiratory function can be particularly helpful. During long runs, breathing effectively is essential to maintain a good pace and prevent fatigue. Breathing in the salt particles during a halotherapy session can help clear the airways, making it easier to take deep breaths during a run.

Additionally, inflammation is a concern for many runners, as it can lead to soreness and injury. Some runners believe halotherapy can reduce inflammation and help them recover faster from their runs.

Overall, halotherapy's benefits for marathon runners are worth considering as a potential complementary therapy.

PEMF Therapy

Part of our Halotherapy treatment, PEMF, or Pulsed Electromagnetic Field therapy, is a relatively new treatment that uses low-frequency electromagnetic waves to stimulate cellular repair and regeneration. While there is limited scientific evidence on the effectiveness of PEMF, some runners use it as a form of complementary therapy to improve their performance and recovery.

For marathon runners, PEMF therapy may benefit them in a few ways. Firstly, it can help reduce inflammation and swelling in the muscles and joints, which can be beneficial for those who experience soreness and pain after long runs. By facilitating cellular repair and regeneration, PEMF can also accelerate the healing process, helping runners recover faster between training sessions.

Another potential benefit of PEMF therapy is that it can help improve circulation, which is crucial for maintaining energy levels and endurance during a marathon. By increasing circulation, oxygen, and nutrients can be delivered more effectively to the muscles, helping them work more efficiently and reducing the risk of fatigue and cramps.

PEMF therapy for marathon runners is undoubtedly a tool worth considering for those looking to optimize their performance and recovery. It's always important to consult with a healthcare professional before starting any new treatment or therapy.

Nutritional Supplementation

Before a marathon, Participants often take supplements to boost their energy levels and endurance. Commonly used ones include caffeine (found in coffee or supplements), beta-alanine, and L-citrulline. Carb-loading with complex carbs like whole grains, fruits, and vegetables can also help provide the energy needed for the marathon.

After a marathon, recovery is vital. Supplements like protein powder (either whey or plant-based) are often used to help rebuild muscles that may have been damaged during the race. Additionally, tart cherry juice or a magnesium supplement may help reduce inflammation and soreness in the days following the marathon.

However, it's important to note that everyone is different, and what works for one person may not work for another. Dr. Kantor is available to meet with you personally, review your current supplementation, and offer suggestions that may give you more of a competitive edge.