Marathon season is in full swing, and if you're running it this year, don’t forget to plan your post marathon recovery. After the big day, your body will need serious TLC.
Anyone who’s ever crossed a finish line knows the aftermath isn’t always pretty. We’re talking lost toenails, tight muscles, chafing and blisters. While you may (or may not) fall victim to these post-run niggles, why not make the weeks following that bit easier with products that are specially formulated to help?
With the right post-marathon recovery products you can soothe sore muscles, revive tired feet, and give your skin the TLC it deserves. Here's how to build a recovery ritual that helps your whole body feel good, inside and out.
The Best Body Wash for Runners
Long runs, sun exposure, and sweat can wreak havoc on your skin. Which is why choosing the right body wash matters.
- For Sweaty, Congested Skin: SBC’s Salicylic Body Wash is a post-run game-changer. Infused with Salicylic Acid to deeply cleanse pores, help reduce congestion and leave your skin feeling refreshed without drying it out. Think of it as a detox for your skin, ideal after hot, humid runs or gym sessions.
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For Sun-Exposed Skin: If your training included a bit too much sun, soothe your skin with SBC’s Aloe Vera Body Wash. Infused with cooling Aloe Vera and hydrating Cucumber, with added Glycerin to lock in moisture. Pair it with our lightweight Aloe Vera Moisturising Gel to calm redness and rehydrate thirsty skin.
Muscle Recovery Baths
When your legs feel like they’ve run to another dimension, a warm soak can do wonders. Enter SBC’s Arnica-infused bath soaks which help alleviate muscle tension, tiredness and fatigue, making them post-marathon recovery essentials.
- For Muscle Recovery: Arnica & Wintergreen Muscle Soak is your go-to. It combines the tension-relieving benefits of Arnica with Epsom salts, Wintergreen Leaf Oil, and Camphor for full-body recovery. It’s not just a bath it’s a full body therapy session.
- For Relaxation and Sleep: Try Arnica & Sandalwood Muscle Soak. With calming Sandalwood and Turmeric added to the mix, it helps unwind both your body and mind. Perfect for improving sleep post-race.
Marathon Recovery Massage with Arnica
You don’t need a sports massage therapist to experience the benefits of hands-on muscle relief. A good massage gel can make all the difference.
- Try: Intensive Arnica Gel – If you are lucky enough to have someone massage your legs, this intensive gel has a good level of slip for working out those stubborn knots in tired legs. Arnica soothes muscles, while Glycerin hydrates skin.
- Need an on-the-go fix? The Original (and best-selling) Arnica Gel is lightweight, cooling, and ideal for gym bags and quick application before or after a run.
Heat or Ice: What’s Best and When?
- Dealing with inflammation or injury? Reach for ice. The ICE Gel, it provides cold therapy to reduce swelling and relieve discomfort.
- Feeling stiff and sore? Use heat. Arnica & Wintergreen Thermal Rub increases blood flow, loosens tight muscles, and is great pre-workout to warm up stiff areas.
The ICE Gel is infused Camphor and Menthol which combine to create the cooling effect which eases tensions and energises a tired mind and keeps you feeling refreshed. Epsom Salts and Wintergreen help soothe and alleviate discomfort.
The Arnica & Wintergreen Targeted Thermal Rub is infused with as soothing blend of Arnica, Wintergreen Leaf Oil, Black Pepper and Cinnamon Bark Extract. It creates a warming sensation, boosting circulation and easing tension fast. A temporary flush or redness on the skin is normal - it means it’s working!
👉 Top tip: Alternate between heat and ice to reduce inflammation and encourage circulation - especially helpful for stubborn niggles or overuse injuries for ultimate post marathon recovery care.
Chafing Relief
Even if you slathered on anti-chafe balm pre-race, the dreaded rub might still strike. When it does, treat it gently. It’s essential to clean the affected area and keep it moisturised to aid healing. Try our little golden gem –
- Propolis & Honey Rescue Balm is infused with Propolis, Honey and Hemp Oil. It soothes, hydrates, and forms a protective barrier to help skin heal faster and feel better. Keep one in your bag for emergencies!
Don’t Forget the Feet
After 26.2 miles, your feet deserve a standing ovation and some deep nourishment, especially with summer quickly approaching.
- Eucalyptus Foot Cream is packed with reviving ingredients to nourish, soothe and protect your precious feet. Eucalyptus and Rosemary Oils work with Arnica to deodorise and uplift tired feet while Salicylic Acid breaks down dead skin build up. Shea Butter softens hard skin while Propolis Extract helps to maintain healthy-looking feet and nails. Plus, the minty fresh scent adds an uplifting final touch. The only foot cream you’ll ever need!
Prioritise Your Recovery Like You Do Your Training
Whether you’re crossing the line of your first marathon or your fiftieth, how you care for your body afterwards matters just as much as the miles you logged getting there. These recovery products don’t just offer relief, they help you rebuild, recharge, and come back stronger. While this guide has marathon season in mind, the truth is, recovery is year-round.
Your muscles, skin, and feet will always thank you for a little extra love. Run hard. Recover harder.