What is meant by "active recovery"?

Active recovery refers to low-intensity exercise that is performed following intense physical activity. The primary purpose of this approach is to facilitate recovery by promoting blood flow to the muscles, which helps to reduce muscle soreness and stiffness that can occur after strenuous workouts. This type of recovery allows the body to clear metabolic waste products more efficiently and can aid in the restoration of energy levels, making it beneficial for subsequent training sessions or competitions.

In contrast, resting completely without any movement is not considered active recovery because it does not promote blood circulation or muscle activation. A cooldown stretch after workouts, while beneficial for flexibility and muscle relaxation, is also not classified as active recovery because it doesn't involve continued exercise at a low intensity. Engaging in recreational sports can be viewed as a form of enjoyable physical activity, but it may not meet the specific intent of actively aiding recovery from intense sessions. Overall, the essence of active recovery lies in maintaining movement through low-intensity activities that support recovery processes.