What type of recovery utilizes gravity to speed up the recovery process?

The correct answer is passive recovery, which refers to a method where the individual does not engage in physical activity but instead allows the body to recover naturally from exertion. This type of recovery often incorporates techniques that may involve gravity, such as lying down in a horizontal position or using various modalities that facilitate natural physiological processes. By positioning the body to lessen the strain on muscles and joints, passive recovery can enhance blood circulation without additional stress, thus promoting the body's natural healing mechanisms.

In this context, other recovery methods differ significantly. Active recovery, for example, involves light physical activity to increase circulation and reduce soreness, which may not leverage gravity in the same restorative manner as passive recovery. Hydrostatic recovery relates to using water pressure, typically through immersing in water, to promote recovery, but this does not primarily utilize gravitational forces. Assisted recovery can include external devices or techniques that help the body recover, but again, this does not focus on the natural gravitational benefits emphasized in passive recovery.