How Stress Can Slow Your Muscle Recovery

Back in September, we mentioned a 
study
 that found that being stressed can actually slow down your metabolism. Now, a study published in 
The Journal of Strength and Conditioning Research
 found another reason why it pays to relax. According to the research, if you’re under stress, your muscle recovery can be delayed a whopping 96 hours after a workout. That means it could take you four days to fight off soreness after a grueling class. What busy dancer has time for that?

Our advice? Try techniques that have the double effects of aiding muscle repair and helping you let go of the day’s stresses. Treat yourself to a hot bubble bath. Your body—and your mind—will thank you.