Health Tip: After You Finish a Marathon

(HealthDay News) -- You've just finished a grueling 26-mile race and your body aches all over. What should you do?

The American Council on Exercise offers this advice:

• Take five-to-10 minutes to cool down. Change clothes right away, so you stay dry and warm. Perform gentle stretches.
• Ice sore muscles and joints. Treat yourself to a gentle massage.
• Rest and let your body replenish.
• Drink plenty of non-alcoholic fluids.
• Have a carbohydrate/protein shake within 15 minutes of finishing.