There are numerous ways to prepare for your workout. You choose the right gear, you make sure you’re hydrated and you stretch and warm up your muscles. But what do you do after your workout? Post-workout is just as important, and in some cases, more so.

What Should I Do After My Workout?

Here's a list of 8 post-workout must-do's that you may not have thought of:

1. Put Away Your Equipment, And Clean Up After Yourself

Do this even if you are in a hurry, and even if the person before you didn't do it. It's just good etiquette and health practice.

2. Wash Your Hands

This should be done immediately, before you touch your phone or your face or anything else. Even in a clean and well-maintained gym, you can't be too careful.

3. Keep Yourself Warm

This may make more sense if you workout outdoors during cold weather. Put on some long sleeves and long pants. Getting cold right after a workout may increase muscle soreness.

4. Replenish Electrolytes

Particularly if you are doing high-intensity workouts such as a spin class, you’ll want to replenish those electrolytes to keep up your energy and avoid things like nausea and dizziness.

5. Give Yourself A High-Five

You did it. You went to the gym, even though you have been working all day, even though you still have to cook dinner and run errands. There are a million things that can get in the way of working out and taking care of yourself, and you still managed to get it done.

6. Use A Toner Or Antibacterial Facewash

Sweat can really do a number on your complexion. Even if you don't have time to shower, spritz or swipe some toner on your skin to get rid of pore-clogging sweat and dirt.

7. Consume Some Protein

Post-workout protein in the form of a shake, a bar or a snack can help speed recovery and make your workout more productive.

8. Take An Epsom Salt Bath

If you have time, take a nice bath after your workout. Epsom salt is great for sore muscles and can help speed recovery from minor injuries.

Taking good care of yourself post-workout can help you make better progress and keep you motivated. Don't let yourself get burned out. Take care of your body by giving yourself proper fuel and a little pampering.

If you really want to jump-start your workout routine, enlist the help of a personal trainer. Ralph Roberts can give you a customized workout that fits your lifestyle and current level of fitness. You can find Ralph at the Downtown Athletic Club in Amarillo.