Even athletes in peak condition can get sore muscles. And while a little muscle pain is normal, especially if you are just starting a new sport or fitness program, you don’t want that stiffness and soreness to interfere with your progress.

We asked Team Ribose member and five-time world champion rower Susan Francia, a two-time Olympic gold medalist, to share her best tips for coping with sore muscles. “I try to prevent sore muscles by stretching before and after workouts,” she says. Stretching helps to warm up muscles and increases your limberness which may help to prevent soft tissue injuries.

Francia also recommends doing focus work on the muscles you use most often during exercise. “For example, I work the small muscles used for rowing, and try to do extra core work,” she explains. If you are not currently working with a trainer, do some research to learn which muscles may need more attention because of your workout routine. Also, pay attention to proper form and proper-fitting equipment (such as shoes, bicycle, etc.) because both of those are factors that can lead to sore muscles as well as injuries.

Another proactive tip in Francia’s strategy is to take Bioenergy Ribose immediately after her hard workouts. “That way, my body can start recovering as soon as I’m done. And, I can feel better energized for the next workout.” Bioenergy Ribose has been shown to significantly improve endurance during strenuous exercise, shorten recovery time, reduce cramping and soreness, and reduce fatigue in people suffering from energy depletion.

What should you try once you do notice sore muscles? “I like to take soothing Epsom salt baths,” says Francia, “or get a deep-tissue massage.” Epsom salts (magnesium sulfate) have been used for centuries to help to reduce muscle inflammation.