By: Kieran Sheridan, founder and co-owner of GulfPhysio

As an athlete, there are various ways to improve your performance in your sports. You’ve likely heard about Epsom salt and its incredible benefits. Although you may have assumed it was a hippy-dippy marketing tool - the truth is that Epsom salts are scientifically proven to do wonders for athletes. Don't let the simple concept fool you; this little mineral can genuinely impact your practice routine in some significant ways. This wonder ingredient has so many benefits for those who practice regular exercise routines and is often used by athletes to help improve their performance, relieve pain and inflammation, and prevent injury.

Epsom salt is a natural remedy for muscle pain and soreness

Athletes are prone to muscle pain and soreness because of the repeated exercises and rigorous training they put their bodies through. In order for them to become better at their craft, they have to push their muscles beyond what is considered the average activity level. Muscle fatigue from overworked muscles or from using the same set of muscles multiple times can cause discomfort, tightness, and eventually muscle pain when left untreated. Epsom salt is an excellent natural remedy for the relief of muscle pain and soreness. Epsom salt, or magnesium sulfate, is a mineral that has been used for centuries as a home remedy to soothe aches and pains. It contains essential minerals like magnesium, sulfur, and selenium that help reduce inflammation and relax muscles. Epsom salts can be dissolved into a warm bath or applied directly to the sore area as a compress.

Epsom salt in a warm bath to relax the muscles before practice

Getting your body ready for sports practice is essential to having a successful session. Having relaxed muscles allow for improved flexibility, which can greatly enhance your performance and reduce the risk of injury. It can also help with the correct technique when practicing and performing a particular skill or exercise. Also, having relaxed muscles will allow you to be more comfortable during practice, and increase your focus and concentration. That’s why it is beneficial to soak in a warm bath of Epsom salt before practice.

When dissolved in water, Epsom salt breaks down into magnesium and sulfate. The principle is that when you soak in an Epsom salt bath, these minerals become absorbed into your body through the skin. This helps relax muscles and reduce swelling and soreness. Add 2 cups of Epsom salt to a water-filled tub and soak for at least 12 minutes. You can do this 3-4 times a week and you will feel the relaxing effect of Epsom salt.

Epsom salt can be used in cold packs to reduce swelling and inflammation

Epsom salt is a fabulous tool for reducing pain and inflammation. Adding Epsom salt to a cold pack can relieve painful, swollen areas such as joints, bruises, and sprains. Epsom salt improves circulation and it absorbs through the skin where it has an anti-inflammatory effect to reduce soreness and swelling. To make your Epsom salt cold pack, mix the Epsom salt with just enough water to dissolve the crystals completely. Then fill a Ziplock bag (or plastic wrap) with the Epsom solution and place it in the freezer until needed. When ready to use it, lay down on a comfortable surface and apply it directly to the affected area until desired relief is achieved - usually no more than 20 minutes at a time. Epsom salt cold packs may be used as often as necessary for ongoing relief of inflammation, swelling, and pain.

Epsom salt is a natural way to relieve pain and improve recovery time

Athletes love Epsom salt, and it's easy to see why. Not only is Epsom salt a natural way to relieve pain and promote recovery after intense physical activity, but it also helps lower inflammation in the body, which can accelerate healing. Studies have shown that adding Epsom salt to your routine can help you heal faster and feel better overall. The combination of magnesium and sulfate found in the salt helps reduce soreness, increases joint mobility and flexibility, and improves circulation. Athletes have been using this super helpful ingredient for its benefits of naturally enhancing recovery time and easing discomfort from an injury.

Try incorporating Epsom salt into your own practice routine and see how it helps you

Many athletes find that incorporating Epsom salt into their practice routine helps with recovery, relaxation and provides a number of other benefits. If you haven't tried it yet, we recommend giving it a shot. It's relatively inexpensive and easy to find, so there's no reason not to give it a try!

Kieran Sheridan is the founder and co-owner of GulfPhysio, UAE’s Largest Online Sports Taping And Physiotherapy Supply Store. He is a fitness and physiotherapy expert, who works hand in hand with other experts to ensure that the brand's wellness products satisfy customers.