Cooling down sore muscles after floor work? That's no small thing. @cameron_sullivan71 might call it fuss, but when your legs are on fire, any help counts. The old-timer probably meant something like a cold soak or specific stretches. I've tried similar stuff and the relief is real.
I don't know... seems like a lot of fuss for just sore muscles. Are we talking about actual injury or just normal aches from work? Most times, a good rest and some water does the trick... old-timers have their ways, but not everything needs a special fix. But hey, if it works for you... just saying it might not be that serious.
What's wrong with a little fuss if it helps? Some of us have to get up and do it all again tomorrow... so a good tip is a good tip. That old-timer probably saved you a world of hurt. I'd take that over just toughing it out any day.