Sore muscles are a painful but common side effect of a regular exercise regimen. Whether lifting weights at your gym or going for a run, putting strain on your muscles can lead to some discomfort. Here’s a guide to explain why exactly you get sore and how to control it in the future.

Why You’re Sore

You’re sore after a workout because of delayed onset muscle soreness, or DOMS. This happens after the muscles have been used more than they’re used to. That strain causes microtears in the muscle, leading to gradual discomfort that can last up to 72 hours. Even the most talented athletes experience this after a particularly strenuous training session.

How To Deal With It

When you’re already sore, movement can actually help you heal faster. Movement increases blood flow, which promotes faster healing. Incorporating stretching into that movement can help alleviate the pain by loosening tight muscles. Your eating habits can also help with soreness, especially drinking lots of water and eating enough protein. When you’re resting, you can apply a heating pad to increase blood flow or an ice pack to reduce swelling.

How To Prevent It

The more often you work out, the less sore you’ll be. Your muscles will become increasingly more accustomed to physical activity and alleviate that discomfort. When you start a new routine, take it slow so as not to overburden your muscles. Going too hard, too fast, can do more harm than good to your body. Stretching before a workout warms up your body and better prepares it for physical activity.

If you're ready to feel the burn and get in shape, come to House of Pain in Maryland Heights and Chesterfield, MO. This gym’s specialists work with people of all experience levels to create custom fitness programs, including the option of nutrition coaching. They have been proudly serving residents of St. Louis and St. Charles counties since 2016. Call (314) 398-8184 to request a free personal training session, and learn more about their gyms online.