It's all in the timing. The initial recovery period is the most critical. If things are done right immediately, down time is significantly reduced. This is where the most gains can be made. The great thing is, speeding recovery up front only requires a few minor changes in your routine to take advantage of this window of opportunity.
Recovery actually begins when the intense workout starts.
An adequate warm-up primes your body for a hard workout and one that produces less damage. Within the workout, drinking 16-24 ounces of sports drink containing carbohydrate and electrolytes every hour reduces stress on the cells and maintains energy levels. Less stress at id decreased use of stored energy means less time to recover. The first 30 minutes following the cessation of a workout is critical. Your initial needs are for fluids, carbohydrate, and protein.