The Trailhead Science Journalist Christie Aschwanden on What Actually Works for Recovery (And What Doesn't)
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Feb 17, 2026 Christie Aschwanden, science journalist and former elite Nordic skier and cycling champ, brings skeptical rigor to the recovery industry. She discusses cold plunges and cryotherapy fads, why sleep trackers can harm more than help, the value of boring recovery tactics like rest and heat, and how trend pressure and marketing shape athlete choices.
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Massage As A Check-In
- Christie says massage helps mainly because it forces you to lie down and rest off your phone.
- She also uses massage to detect knots and check how her body actually feels.
Prepare And Fuel For Multiday Events
- For multiday events, start well-rested and prioritize sleep and solid meals with carbs and protein.
- Replenish calories and glycogen promptly after efforts; one bad meal won't ruin you but calories matter.
Don't Let Sleep Trackers Rule You
- Don't obsess over consumer sleep trackers; their detailed stages are often inaccurate and cause anxiety.
- Trust how you feel more than a dubious sleep-score to avoid harmful feedback loops.
