Which recovery method involves low intensity activity post-exercise to maintain blood flow?

Active recovery is the correct choice as it refers to engaging in low-intensity activity after exercise, which serves to maintain blood flow to the muscles. This increased blood circulation helps to remove metabolic byproducts like lactic acid that accumulate during intense exercise, thereby facilitating a quicker recovery process.

By incorporating low-intensity activities, such as walking, cycling, or gentle stretching, active recovery assists in the gradual return of heart rate and breathing to pre-exercise levels. This method can also help reduce muscle soreness and stiffness, making it an essential strategy in recovery protocols for athletes and individuals aiming to optimize their training regimens.

In contrast, passive recovery entails complete rest without any activity, which does not promote blood flow in the same way. Complete recovery is a broader term that may not specifically imply activity, while restoration recovery is not widely recognized as a standard term in exercise science. Thus, active recovery is the most effective and recognized method for maintaining blood flow post-exercise.