KD,
You asked how people, recover after such a task!!
Firstly, eating lots and not having to care about it.
Secondly training this was the best I have been after a marathon and was itching to run within 3 days!! however forced myself to take a whole week out- started back with just small runs 3 times a week 3- 5 miles a time nice and slow, and mixing it up with weights.
My mind is looking forward to my next event THE GRIM 8, a stroll through mud, puddles and a cargo net- have wanted to do this for a while, caked in mud, and jumping in puddles any parents nightmare..
Take it easy