Spa-ah! Equinox Marathon Massage

It might seem a little presumptuous to start thinking about what you're doing after Sunday's 34th running of the Bank of America Chicago Marathon. After all, we're still three days out from the race and crossing the finish line can still be up in the air--you know, in case you have to drop out, you get injured or the predicted 79-degree heat becomes too much on the body. But forget the negative what-ifs. You're determined to run 26.2 miles no matter what, and you know you'll be crossing that finish line on Columbus Drive, feeling your muscles burn and ache at least once on the course, craving a beer or other post-race treat once you regain your appetite and can eat more than gels and Gatorade.

Back to those burning muscles. You're aching, you can barely walk, you're hobbling from point A to point B (trust me: I've been there). You want some relief and recovery, simple as that. Your method? Massage. It's good for recovery, it relaxes and softens your tired and overused muscles, and it'll pump oxygen through your overworked body--and that's just for starters. Here's a deal that you can't refuse: The Spa @ Equinox is offering 15 percent off all massage services to those who participated in the Chicago Marathon. They want to celebrate and congratulate your accomplishments, too, and they want you to feel even better in the process. To claim your reward, visit one of the four Equinox spa locations in the Chicago area: Highland Park, North Michigan, Lincoln Park or the Loop, and bring your marathon bib with you. This offer runs from October 10 to 16, so you won't have to rush over on Monday, especially if you're still relishing in your accomplishment and getting your medal engraved.

Whether it's a sports, Swedish, shiatsu or deep tissue massage, I know my muscles will thank me later. And that's a reward I can run 26.2 miles for, or maybe it's the other way around.

Photo courtesy of Equinox.