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Why Are My Muscles Sore After I Work Out?

Exercise is an important part of a healthy life. But can something so good for you be painful? For some people, yes. But don’t worry—it’s entirely normal to be sore after a new workout.

Delayed onset muscle soreness, also known as DOMS, can happen after a workout and cause sore muscles that may reduce your range of motion for up to two days. While you may be slightly uncomfortable, it’s actually a positive sign that your muscles are working properly and getting used to your new activity or exercise.

DOMS occurs with resistance training and is a result of micro-tears in muscles, which leads to more blood flow and inflammation. This can bring light swelling that triggers your pain receptors.

However, this is only temporary. As your muscle recovers, it’s able to eventually handle heavier and heavier loads, making you stronger.

Reducing Muscle Soreness

Even though sore muscles and working out go hand in hand, there are steps you can take to reduce your discomfort as your body recovers from a new workout.

  • Although you may not have guessed it, MORE exercise helps to relieve DOMS. However, make sure it’s something gentle like light cardio or yoga a day or so after your DOMS inducing exercise.
  • Warm up your muscles for five minutes longer than you usually do before your next workout. Try foam rolling or dynamic stretching.
  • Stay hydrated! It’s important to drink plenty of water on days you work out and days you don’t.
  • Post work out and the following day foam roll the muscles worked. Each area for no more than 1 min.
  • Give each muscle group adequate time to recover. There’s no need to work out your legs several days in a row. Instead, focus on legs one day, followed by shoulders, then core.

Want to give your body an even bigger boost for combating muscle soreness and performing optimally? Contact our practice to book an appointment. We look forward to seeing you soon.

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