"draining fluid from your legs"

[alpinerabbit]

I can hardly imagine getting fluid buildup from a medium-length workout. Long runs, maybe. I get edemas from hiking or extended shopping orgies.

[Zen]

Hide the Hennessey

[kjay]

hellostarshine, I'm so glad you asked this question because after long riding (ie, many hours for several days), this is exactly what happens to me. Thanks very much for bringing up this subject. At least now I can begin to correct the problem.

[Running Mommy]

For years now I've been jumping into an ice bath after my long rides/runs. My coach got me doing this, and it really does speed recovery. Since I have a pool now I just go stand in my unheated freezing cold pool. I try to stay in as long as possible, but can barely make it five minutes. It hurts. But it really helps with recovery. On the rare occasion that I don't have time to do it, I'm really sore the next day.

[alpinerabbit]

*wonders if she could stand even seconds in the river before crawling home*

[Starfish]

2nd the ice baths...also, I swear by my rolling pin...works great on the calves and quads.

[Zen]

Muscle soreness and edema (the original query) are two entirely different matters.

Edema is an accumulation of extracellular fluid that Dianyla referred to. It's explained in detail here.

Soreness after exercise is due to an accumulation of lactic acid. That's when you get out the rolling pin.

[TxDoc]

*wonders if she could stand even seconds in the river before crawling home*

Aaaah! Years ago I tried to swim in a river in Switzerland, the Aare, and I thought I was going to freeze!!!
Only lasted 10 minutes before jumping out!