Stretch It Out, Mama: The 5 Best Recovery Tools for Tired Legs and Busy Lives

Stretch It Out, Mama: The 5 Best Recovery Tools for Tired Legs and Busy Lives

Let’s be honest—being a mom is a full-body workout. Between running errands, chasing toddlers, sneaking in your own runs or strength workouts, your legs (and everything else!) can take a beating.

But here’s the thing most of us mamas forget: recovery isn’t a luxury. It’s a necessity.

Whether you’re training for a 5K or just trying to keep up with your toddler’s energy, taking care of your body is the secret to doing it all without burning out.

Below are the top 5 recovery tools this mama (and coach) swears by—plus some cozy Monarch Movement pieces to wrap up in after your next sweat session.

1. Foam Roller: Your DIY Massage Therapist

If you don’t have a foam roller, this is your sign. Foam rolling helps release muscle tension, improve circulation, and reduce soreness. Spend just 5-10 minutes post-run or workout rolling your calves, quads, glutes, and hamstrings.

Tip: Breathe through the discomfort and go slow. It’s not punishment, it’s therapy.

Monarch Tie-In: Follow it up with our ultra-soft Monarch joggers and a comfy affirmation hoodie to keep the warmth in and the tension out.

2. Compression Socks: Support You Can Feel

Swollen feet? Tired calves? Compression socks are magic for moms who are on their feet all day or pushing through high-mileage weeks. They boost blood flow and can seriously cut down recovery time.

Recommended Brands: CEP, Swiftwick, and our Monarch custom sock line that lets you move with meaning.

Bonus: Ours are printed with uplifting messages like "One step stronger" to remind you how far you’ve come.

3. Epsom Salt Baths: Your Soak & Soothe Ritual

This is more than a self-care moment—it's muscle recovery in disguise. Epsom salt contains magnesium, which helps ease muscle cramps, reduce inflammation, and promote relaxation.

Make it extra: Light a candle, turn on calming music, and use that 20 minutes to actually breathe.

Monarch Tip: Slip into our post-soak fleece zip-up and fuzzy socks and take that chill all the way to bedtime.

4. Massage Balls or Recovery Stick: Pinpoint the Tension

Sometimes you need to get deeper than a foam roller can. That’s where massage balls or a handheld recovery stick come in. Use them on foot arches, tight shoulders, or anywhere that screams "I'm tired!"

Best For: Runners, lifters, or mamas who wear their stress in their bodies.

Pro Tip: Keep one at your desk or in the diaper bag for on-the-go tension relief.

5. Gentle Mobility & Stretching: Don’t Skip This!

It doesn’t take long—just 5-10 minutes of stretching or gentle movement can make a huge difference. Think cat-cow, child’s pose, hip openers, and dynamic stretches.

Monarch Movement Pro Tip: Use your Mama Motivation Fitness Journal to jot down how your body feels post-movement and track your recovery routines.

Final Thoughts: Recovery Is the Secret Sauce

Recovery isn’t lazy. It’s preparation. It’s healing. It’s how we stay strong for the long haul. When you take care of your body, you’re not just investing in your next workout—you’re investing in your ability to show up for your family, your goals, and yourself.

And mama, you deserve that kind of strength.

Recovery Looks Good on You

Shop our latest Monarch Movement recovery edit: cozy zip-ups, custom printed slides, affirmation hoodies, and fitness journals that help you reflect, reset, and move forward.

🛒 Wrap yourself in recovery. Explore the Monarch edit for moms who move.