The Olympics are nearly over and many of the athletes will begin a recovery regimen to help them recuperate from the physical demands and emotional highs and lows of the competition.

Matcha is well-known for its energy boosting effect and widely consumed before exercise to support performance, but did you know quality matcha can play a significant role in enhancing post exercise recovery as well? 

Matcha may help reduce oxidative stress and inflammation

Matcha is rich in antioxidants, particularly catechins like EGCG (epigallocatechin gallate), which can help to combat oxidative stress and reduce inflammation. Intense workouts increase the production of free radicals, which can damage cells. Antioxidants in matcha neutralize these free radicals, reducing oxidative stress and muscle damage. The anti-inflammatory properties of matcha can also help to alleviate muscle soreness and joint pain post-exercise.

L-theanine, found in quality Matcha, has a wide variety of post-exercise benefits

As you may already know, quality matcha contains the amino acid L-theanine. L-theanine latches onto the caffeine slowing down its release so, unlike the jittery spike often experienced with coffee, matcha provides a smooth and sustained energy boost. This can help maintain energy levels throughout the day, even after a strenuous workout. L-theanine also promotes a state of relaxed alertness, helping to maintain mental clarity and focus during and after exercise.

Matcha can aid in maintaining proper hydration and electrolyte balance, helping to replenish fluids lost during exercise, and the amino acids found in matcha, including L-theanine, support muscle repair and growth.

Post-workout recovery isn’t just physical; mental recovery is also vital and the calming effects of L-theanine can also help reduce stress and promote relaxation, aiding in overall mental recovery.

Olympic Silver Medallist and World and European Gold Medallist, Jamie Baulch  says,

How I wish I had OMGTea matcha when I was competing! The mental demands of competing at the highest level can be immense and I truly believe it would have made it a smoother ride.

How to include matcha in your post-workout routine

As you can see, consuming matcha after exercise has a variety of potential benefits and there are also a variety of tasty ways you can add it to your recovery regime.

Colin Jackson, World Record Breaker. World, European and Commonwealth Gold Medallist and Olympic Silver Medallist, says: 

I've always believed that taking care of my body through a healthy diet and proper nutrition is essential for peak performance and overall well-being. I love OMGTea matcha because it’s not just good for me, it also tastes great! A drink should be something you enjoy, and I look forward to my matcha at 11am each day. It’s a great mid-morning boost and leaves me feeling refreshed.

If you want to enjoy your matcha straight up and on-the-go, you can add ½ teaspoon to your water bottle and shake vigorously to mix well or you can enjoy it as a mindful cup of tea or latte.

There are also some other appetising and effective ways to include matcha in your post-workout nutrition:

Matcha Smoothie. Blend matcha with your favourite fruits, vegetables, and a protein source for a nutritious recovery smoothie.
Matcha Protein Shake. Add matcha powder to your post-workout protein shake.
Matcha Hydration Drink. Mix matcha with water and a pinch of sea salt for an electrolyte-rich hydration drink.
Matcha Energy Balls. Make energy balls with matcha, oats, nuts, and honey for a convenient post-workout snack.

And remember, post-exercise recovery is not just for Olympic athletes; it's important for anyone who engages in physical activity, regardless of fitness level. Recovery practices help the body repair, rebuild, and adapt to the stresses of exercise, making them beneficial for everyone, from beginners to seasoned athletes.

So, if you are taking part in exercise, you should consider including matcha in your post exercise nutrition. The unique combination of nutrients found in matcha can support both physical and mental recovery, helping you to recover like a pro!