Some pros, like Todd Martin, now travel with portable electric stimulation machines that help speed muscle recovery.

Gentle exercise in the week after the marathon can aid muscle recovery.

"Accumulation of blood lactate is thought is to delay muscle recovery," he says.

The physical effect of massage on muscle recovery and repeated sports performance is controversial.

Massage appears to have a positive effect on athletes' perceptions about muscle recovery.

For bodybuilders whey protein provides amino acids used to aid in muscle recovery.

These garments are thought to both reduce the risk of muscle injury and speed up muscle recovery.

Aug. 19, 2011 - Eating or drinking protein after exercise can help muscle recovery and growth, experts agree.

"I eat for muscle recovery and energy," she says.

The composition of this beverage reflects its intention to provide both hydration and muscle recovery after exercise.