Monday, December 16, 2013

Why do my Muscle Hurt After a Workout?



Muscle pain is synonymous with any physical fitness routine. From weight lifting to floor exercises, muscles are continuously stretched and contracted. As a result, they tend to hurt after workouts; which result in soreness and limited mobility. In order to counter these effects, there are several ways to restore functionality and recover from the pain.


Muscle Pain



With any moderate of extensive workout, muscle tissue can be stretched and even torn. This, however, is a common result of direct pressure applied on the muscles during fitness regimens. For most people, recovery time can range from a few minutes to as long as an hour. It simply depends on how much strain your muscles have faced. It also depends on whether the muscles were overworked, or if any pre-workout preparations were implemented. Since free or circuit weight-training shocks the muscles, chances are it will still hurt after the workout is over.


Pre-workout Preparation



As a way to alleviate muscle pain after workouts, pre-workout preparations are simply crucial. This includes at least 5-10 minutes of stretching, or 5-10 minutes on a treadmill. These are essential ways to warm up the muscles in preparation for the main workout. It also stimulates the heart, along with joints, tendons and other vital body parts. For those who simply work out cold, they tend to face greater muscle pain after workouts. In fact, the pain may even last for up to 2 days, and may require ointments or extensive muscle soaking treatments.


Know The Limits



Another reason why muscles hurt after workouts is excessive strain. If working with a fitness instructor, he or she knows the amount of weight the muscles can facilitate. Therefore, a new physical fitness routine will usually start with lower weights for light lifting. This will gradually increase, as you build muscle, form, and shed those unwanted pounds. For those, however, who wish to work out alone, monitoring how much weight you are lifting is simply paramount. For example: If a 20lb. Dumbbell seems too heavy, try working out with a 15lb. Unit or lower weight.


Muscle Contractions



Even with moderating weight limits, the muscles are still continually contracting. This is due to weightlifting motions, which are usually down to up or side-to-side maneuvers. As a result, the muscles get strained during and in-between sets. To ensure optimal growth and performance, it is important to take periodic breaks between lifting sessions. This way, the muscles can relax and return to its normal form, before the next workout set commences. You can also take this time to drink water and re-hydrate the muscles and body.


Post-Workout Tips



While muscle pain is sure to follow any workout, there are a few tips that can help eliminate it. For one, immediate stretching allows the muscles to breathe after enhanced workouts. Certain pain spots can also be eradicated, while proper muscle form is restored throughout the day. Muscle recovery may also include hot showers, pain relieving ointments, and even body sprays for muscle cramps and tension. Aside from stretching, any exterior assistance should be applied 10 minutes after the initial workout is over.

Muscle pains after workouts have become a common and frequent occurrence. While they are an integral part of working out, there are several ways to eliminate or at least control its effects. From pre-workout stretching to taking breaks between sets, exercise aficionados can protect their muscles, while ensuring less pain and securing favorable results.










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