When you think about workout essentials, essential oil might not be at the top of your must-have list. In recent years, however, athletes and trainers have started to tap into the power of aromatherapy for exercise to not only smell nicer but improve results too.
Using essential oils for fitness is a growing trend because it works—science has proven that certain scents can improve mood, reduce tension, and boost energy. So, here's a look at the five scents that provide the most effective aromatherapy for your workouts.
Ginger
If you're feeling low energy before you begin your workout, rub some ginger on your pressure points. Ginger oil has been found to reduce fatigue as well as anxiety, lethargy, and stress. This warming essential oil helps to support a body's cellular energy, which in turn can even help melt away some fat. Plus, a compound in ginger known as gingerol reduces inflammation, which helps your muscles rebound faster after tough workouts.
Ylang-Ylang
Another great aromatherapy for exercise is ylang-ylang, which is extracted from the flowers of a tropical tree that grows throughout Asia. Along with offering antidepressant and aphrodisiac qualities, this scent improves circulation and reduces blood pressure by supporting the cardiovascular system. Your heart is one of the most important muscles you’ll exercise your workout, and applying some ylang-ylang before your workout may help keep your heart strong and supported.
Bergamot
This sweet, citrus scent may not be on every list when it comes to the best essential oils for workouts, but it has several useful functions at the gym. Bergamot offers two important benefits for athletes. First, when applied topically to the skin, it can help reduce pain by dulling nerve sensitivity. Secondly, it has disinfectant and antibacterial qualities that make for an effective deodorant. Mix it with water in a spray bottle for an effective air freshener to add to your equipment cleaning routine.
Cinnamon Oil
Work out too hard? Cinnamon oil is here to help. Thanks to its antispasmodic properties and ability to alleviate pain, you can rub a little of this oil on stressed muscles as a natural pain reliever. Cinnamon oil is anti-inflammatory as well as antibacterial, making it one of the best aromatherapy options for workouts.
Lavender Oil
After workouts, this well-known essential oil can help you relax with its anti-anxiety and anti-inflammatory qualities. It's antimicrobial, antibacterial, and antiviral too, which means you can use it to rid yourself of any funk you may have picked up during your workout. Try it in a diffuser while you cool down with a recovery tool like the Hyperice roller in the video below. Plus, it can help you relax for a great night's sleep.
Looking for more ways to improve your fitness routine? Talk with experts at G&G Fitness Equipment today for more inspiration.
Have questions? Ask them in the comments below!
