[Kick277Jen]

I just started pre-season for field hockey last week and my muscles are EXTREMELY sore! My pain is obviously mostly in my legs but my back and my arms are also pretty sore. What can I do to relax my muscles? Is bathing in epsom salt a good idea? Thanks -Jen

[CaptainRich]

Any light stretching & sooting balms are good. I've never tried epsom salts, but ask your coach. Preseason start-ups can be a bear. Keep your fluids up. And pace yourself. Use a hot-tub or jaccuzzi, if available; the heated water can prepare you for the workout weather.

I've watched my cat... she stretches after naps and starts her excersizes slowly. And, if she's tired, she just stops! No other rules. (I wish I were my cat! )

Good luck!

.

[GlindaofOz]

Ben-Gay has these patches that you can just stick on. I was worshiping the makers of this product over the weekend when I strained my back.

Also be sure to be some good stretching after you exercise. If you cool down slowly and then stretch well you help halt the build of lactic acid in your muscles which is what causes them to be sore to being with.

[Kick277Jen]

I just started pre-season for field hockey last week and my muscles are EXTREMELY sore! My pain is obviously mostly in my legs but my back and my arms are also pretty sore. What can i do to relax my muscles? Is bathing in epsom salt a good idea? Thanks -Jen

Ok thanks. If anyone else has any other ideas or knows anything about epsom salt please let me know. All responses greatly appreciated.

[GlindaofOz]

Personally I've never found relief with epsom salts but it does help some people so I think its worth a shot.

[CaptainRich]

Here from a brief online search:
Care2 Greenliving :: 13 Wonderful Ways to Use Epsom Salts
Let us know!