Post-exercise Recovery Nutrition Strategies with RPE Scale
摘要
Post-exercise recovery is a vital aspect of athletic performance, aimed at restoring homeostasis, repairing muscle tissues, replenishing energy stores, and reducing exercise-induced fatigue. The Rate of Perceived Exertion (RPE) scale, a subjective measure of exercise intensity, is used to personalize recovery strategies by categorizing the intensity of the workout and guiding nutritional recommendations accordingly. This chapter delves into post-exercise recovery nutrition strategies, integrating RPE to provide tailored guidance for effective recovery. In low-intensity exercise (RPE 6-11), recovery is based on 5–7 g/kg/day carbohydrate intake, 1.2–1.4 g/kg/day protein, and 0.8–1.0 g/kg/day fat intake, while in moderate-intensity exercise (RPE 12–16), recovery depends on 7–12 g/kg/day carbohydrate intake, 1.4–1.8 g/kg/day protein, and 1–1.2 g/kg/day fat. On the other hand, in high-intensity exercise (RPE 17–20), recovery focuses on 10–12 g/kg/day carbohydrate intake, 1.6–2.2 g/kg/day of protein, and 1–1.5 g/kg/day of fat intake. For a quick efficient recovery, a 3 to 4:1 ratio of carbohydrate/protein has been given in a time window of 40 min–1 h to meet the glycogen storage replenishment, energy balance, and muscle repair. While fat is like omega-3 fatty acids, MUFA has been given to reduce the inflammatory response. During the post-exercise condition, hydration must be given as a measure of 1.5 times fluid loss, whereas sodium, potassium, magnesium, calcium, etc. minerals along with vitamins (especially vit – A/ C/ E/ D) should also be added adequately to meet faster recovery.