After the massage, the spa staff offered me juice and Prosecco, and let me know that I could head back to my room, make use of the sauna, or relax by the pool. I went for the carrot juice and sipped it on a lounge chair by the indoor pool as I reveled in my looser muscles and decreased hip tension.
I came back to an ice bath ready and waiting in my suite. If you haven’t done a cold plunge or ice bath before, know that it is going to be a quick experience, so the $100 price tag may be off-putting to some. I put my legs in for around 15 seconds; then got out and in again for 30 seconds, submerging my legs, torso, and chest this time. As with previous cold plunges, I felt instantly invigorated. It really wakes you up, and gives you an adrenaline rush that a cold shower doesn’t quite match (you also don’t have to dunk your head or get your hair wet, helpful for anyone who’s about to go on with a regular day, like I was). This practice, increasingly popular with athletes, actors, and influencers, has been shown to reduce muscle soreness (more on that from our friends at Self).
The trio of services was an excellent combo. It’s difficult to parse which aided my recovery most, but what I am sure of is that I was walking around the rest of the day, and the following day, fairly normally. Usually I’m hobbling around for at least a few days. Flying back home that night, my hips were annoying me a bit (it was hard to get comfortable—I should’ve packed my foot hammock!), but my back, shoulders, and legs were feeling surprisingly fine. The next day, I had no issue or pain going up stairs, a solid indicator for me of a faster recovery than usual.
Going forward, I plan on incorporating some kind of cold therapy, as well as a massage, when possible, into my post race recovery routine—especially on trips when I still have a few travel days after the half. To more advanced runners, 13 miles may be a casual weekend run, but for me, it’s an accomplishment every time, and one I ought to celebrate. And of course, my trusty massage gun and hydration essentials will still be in rotation.
These recovery services are available for any Park Hyatt guest to book, whether they’re staying in a suite or regular guest room (both types have tubs to accommodate the cold plunge). In a suite, though, you have ample space for all of the services to be done in-room should you prefer full privacy (or as little movement as possible). Or, you can head to the hotel’s NoMI Spa for your 80-minute massage ($275 at the spa, $315 in-room). DripIV options, which start at $249, will be available to book soon, and include drips designed to help with energy, dehydration, headache relief, and even hangovers.
Condé Nast Traveler does not provide medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Any information published on this website or by this brand is not intended as a substitute for medical advice, and you should not take any action before consulting with a healthcare professional.
