Marathon Runners Want to Know: Is it Better to Hot Tub Before or After the Race? (2024)

November 25, 2014

The Hot Tub and the long 26.2 Miles. What’s the right schedule for maximum body benefits from your hot tub when you about to run a marathon? That’s the burning question our Olympic Hot Tub customers who are running Sunday’s Seattle Marathon have been asking.

Unlike the everyday aches, pains, and swelling that a soak relieves after an ordinary workout, the impact of a marathon calls for careful timing for best results.

Here’s a schedule that works:

→Before. A short pre-exercise hot tub soak can make the run more pleasant, especially on a cold day, because it increases blood flow to your legs. Remember that you’ve already started sweating when you soak, and be sure keep hydrated.

→ Immediately after. This is the time to play it cool. Applying ice or cold water will limit blood flow to the inflamed muscles so they’ll feel better fast. Heat would keep them inflamed, and continued sweating would keep you dehydrated.

→ 36-48 Hours Later. You’ll get maximum benefits from the hot tub by soaking 36 to 48 hours after the run. By then, the inflammation is past and the increased blood flow will stimulate healing for your damaged muscles. Plus, it’s a great reward for your racing success.

Remember: tub, run, ice, tub later. You’ll be warmed up, you’ll race well, you’ll cool down, and you’ll look forward to bliss in your Hot Spring Spa in a couple of days. Not to mention less soreness!

A note, too, that we’re not doctors. If you have any questions about your own health, hot tubbing & marathon running, do consult your own doctor.

Any tips you’d like to add? When do you hot tub for best results before & after a marathon?

As the Romans said it, RES EST SERVA VOLUPTAS. Pleasure is serious business.

More on exercise and hot tubbing:

Hot Tub Yoga for Athletes, 50+ and Busy, Stressed People

40% Reduction in Soreness by Taking a Hot Tub After Your Workout

Want to Cure Sore Muscles After a Workout? Hot Tub + Watermelon!