Benefits of Epsom Salt Bath for Soccer Players

In a weird and almost unexplainable way…Epsom salt baths are magical.

As a soccer player, you know that your body goes through a lot during practices and games. From running and jumping to tackling and kicking, your muscles can become sore and tired.

One of the best ways to help alleviate this discomfort is by taking an Epsom salt bath.

For soccer players, an Epsom salt bath can help:

1. Soothe sore muscles
2. Reduce inflammation
3. Improve recovery time

Epsom salt is a natural mineral compound made up of magnesium and sulfate. When dissolved in water, it can be absorbed through the skin and provide numerous benefits for your body.

In this article, we’ll explore the benefits of an Epsom salt bath and why you should consider taking it!

The Benefits of Epsom Salt Bath for Soccer Players

Epsom salt baths are a natural and effective way to alleviate these symptoms and promote recovery. Here are some of the benefits of taking Epsom salt baths:

Relieves Muscle Pain and Soreness

Epsom salt contains magnesium, which is essential for muscle function and relaxation. When you soak in an Epsom salt bath, the magnesium is absorbed through your skin and can help reduce inflammation and muscle tension.

Reduces Inflammation

Inflammation is a natural response to injury or stress, but too much inflammation can be harmful and delay recovery.

Epsom salt baths have anti-inflammatory properties that can help reduce swelling and inflammation in your muscles and joints. This can help speed up your recovery time and get you back on the field faster.

Improves Sleep Quality

Getting enough rest and sleep is crucial for a soccer player’s performance and recovery. You’re like an iPhone being charged at night. You want to wake up with full bars!

Epsom salt can help improve your sleep quality by relaxing your muscles and reducing stress.

The magnesium in the salt can also help regulate your body’s production of melatonin, a hormone that regulates sleep.

Promotes Relaxation and Reduces Stress

Epsom salt can help promote relaxation and reduce stress by calming your nervous system and lowering your cortisol levels.

This can help you feel more relaxed and focused, both on and off the field.

Speeds Up Recovery Time

Taking baths with Epsom salt is a natural and effective way to enhance your recovery time between games and training sessions.

By reducing inflammation, relieving muscle pain and soreness, and promoting relaxation and sleep, Epsom salt baths can help you recover faster and perform better.

The Best Epsom Salts on Amazon

We’ve tried many Epsom salts and most of them are the same. But, over the last couple of years, we’ve stumbled on Epsoak Epsom Salt. For the size of the bag (19 pounds) relative to the cost, this is our go-to.

There’s also Dr. Teal’s which is a quality product and has a lavender scent to it.

Both are great options for recovery.

How to Take an Epsom Salt Bath

Here are the steps you can follow to take an Epsom salt bath:

1. Determine the Right Amount of Epsom Salt

The amount of Epsom salt you need depends on the size of your bathtub. As a general rule, you can use 1-2 cups of salt for a standard-sized bathtub.

If you have a larger tub, you may need to use more. Be sure to check the instructions on the package you have purchased for specific guidelines.

2. Fill the Bathtub with Warm Water

Fill the bathtub with warm water, making sure the temperature is comfortable for you. Very hot water can dry out the skin, so it’s best to use warm water instead.

Fill the tub enough so that you can submerge most of your body in the water.

3. Add Epsom Salt and Stir the Water

Once the bathtub is filled with water, add the Epsom and stir the water to dissolve the salt.

You can use a spoon or your hand to stir the water. Make sure the salt is fully dissolved before getting into the tub.

4. Soak for at Least 15 Minutes

Get into the tub and soak for at least 15 minutes. You can soak for longer if you want, but 15 minutes is the minimum amount of time needed to get the benefits of the Epsom salt bath.

During this time, you can relax and let the Epsom salt work its magic on your muscles.

5. Rinse Your Body with Clean Water

After soaking in the bath, rinse your body with clean water. This will help remove any residue from the salt and leave your skin feeling fresh and clean.

Best Time to Take a Bath

When is the best time to take a bath? It depends on your situation and how your body feels at the moment.

Before a Game or Practice

Taking an Epsom salt bath before a game or practice can help you feel more relaxed and focused. The warm water and magnesium in the salts can help ease muscle tension and calm your nerves. This can be especially helpful if you tend to get anxious before a big game.

After a Game or Practice

After a game or practice, your muscles may be sore and tired. Taking a bath can help speed up your recovery time and reduce muscle soreness. The magnesium in the salts can also help improve your overall muscle function and prevent cramping.

How Often to Take a Bath

The frequency of Epsom salt baths will depend on your individual needs and schedule. Some players may benefit from taking a bath every day, while others may only need to take one a few times a week. It’s important to listen to your body and adjust accordingly.

My son probably takes one every two weeks. He’s a teenager, impatient, and he would rather be doing something else so he usually opts for quick showers But, when his body is sore (maybe after the fourth straight training session in a row), he’ll make himself a bath with Epsom salt.

In conclusion, taking an Epsom salt bath can be a beneficial addition to your soccer training routine. Whether before or after a game or practice, it can help improve your performance and speed up your recovery time. Just remember to listen to your body and adjust accordingly.

Conclusion

It comes down to science and medicine. There’s proof that Epsom salt has many benefits for the human body.

Young athletes should take advantage of this natural miracle!

If you’re a parent reading this, you should try it too! Warm Epsom salt baths aren’t just reserved for athletes, they’ll help with your mind, body, and soul.