If you're regularly strength training, you've probably experienced something known as DOMs (delayed-onset muscle soreness). It's particularly common if you're new to lifting weights, but even experienced lifters can get sore after a heavy session.
There are several theories about what causes it, but the prevailing one is that it's caused by muscular microtears and inflammation, which are the result of exercise.
There are a few different ways you can try and ease the pain of DOMs, including massage and stretches. But Helen O'Leary, physiotherapist and clinical director of Complete Pilates, says the best thing you can do for your body is to keep it moving.
"It may sound counterintuitive but continuing to do light exercise is one of the most effective means of alleviating DOMS pain," O'Leary says.
Why you should exercise even if you're sore
Doing something like yoga or Pilates could take the edge off your DOMS. Unfortunately, the pain relief will only be temporary—but according to O'Leary, exercise will also encourage your muscles' recovery efforts.
This is because exercise increases blood flow to the muscles, which helps deliver the oxygen and nutrients they need to repair and rebuild themselves. It could also help remove some inflammatory mediators—molecules that are released by muscle cells after injury—and speed up the recovery process.
O'Leary says it's a good idea to plan your weekly workout carefully, if you think it's likely that your session will result in some DOMS.
"Scheduling in alternative exercise types, or biasing different muscle areas, will give the affected muscle groups time to rest and recover," she says.
Using tools like foam rollers and massage guns may also provide temporary relief, but in general active recovery is better than passive recovery as it allows you to incorporate movement into your day, which is better for you in the long run.
