Stretch needed

On Sunday, my buddy and I visited the Boyce Thompson Arboretum, one of our favorite hiking spots. According to my Oura ring, I logged just over 10K steps, but I was wearing my Xero shoes. I felt a little sore Monday, but yesterday, the real soreness kicked in, particularly in my calves.

My calves are perpetually tight. If I use a foam roller on them or squeeze the muscles, it feels like someone is stabbing me with a red-hot poker. I've been doing some stretching, but the relief finally came after a few sessions with the Rapid Release tool. 

The problem with traditional percussion tools is that they pound pretty hard, even at a lower setting. It feels fine for large muscle groups, but it kills for smaller muscles. The Rapid Release uses high frequency and low amplitude that work on any muscle groups.

I probably should have used my Normatec compression boots when I got back from the hike to pre-empt the lactic acid buildup that causes delayed-onset muscle soreness. I always seem to wait for the pain to trigger action. 

It's good that I have my weekly stretch appointment this afternoon. Something tells me he's going to hammer in on the calves.