An essential component of a healthy, active lifestyle is exercise. It strengthens your bones and muscles, as well as your heart and lungs. But sore muscles can result from exercising. If you try a new activity or boost your intensity, this is typical. It’s possible to use new muscles, strain existing ones, or even cause minor muscle fiber rips. These are indications that your muscles are attempting to adapt to this new workout, develop, and become stronger. One of the unappealing results of exercise is sore muscles. The degree of muscular soreness might vary greatly depending on the type and intensity of the workout.
Take a day off
The whole reason you get the soreness is because you overworked yourself. Get some rest. 24 hours should be enough to give your body the rest it requires. You need to make sure that you do not do any kind of strenuous work as this will just add and prolong the soreness. There is no harm in taking a day off.
Massage
One of the best remedies for sore muscles is a massage. This will help relieve muscle tension and boost your blood flow. You will also feel very comforting when you get a massage after a long and tiring workout session. Make use of oils and scented candles as this will definitely make the whole massage session feel more relaxing.
Heat
If the soreness or the muscle ache continues for more than two days, it is best to use a heat pack. Applying heat on the sore muscles will stimulate blood flow and ease the tension. You could also consider taking a bath. This will definitely leave you in a relaxed state and right after the bath you can get a good night’s rest.
Hydration
We cannot stress enough on how important water is. You need to make sure to drink a lot of water. This will help you loosen your joints and also control your body temperature. Your body will suffer from cramps, fatigue and many more symptoms if you do not keep it hydrated enough.
Know your limits
You are not in a race. There is absolutely no need for you to rush and compete. Take you time and workout at your own pace. If you push yourself you will end up hurting your body and will not be able to workout for another 2 – 3 days. Pushing yourself one day and not working out for 3 days is totally not worth it. Make most of the rest days. It is highly recommended to keep a day or two in a week dedicated for your rest.
Stretching
Whether you are old or young, never jump directly into your main exercise. You must always begin with warmups. This will help you get started and also loosen your joints. This way you have a very less chance of getting cramps or hurting yourself. Even after an intense workout session, if you feel like your muscles are sore, stretching will help a lot. It will circulate blood away from your muscles and back into your heart. This will help with recovery.
Eat
If you muscles are sore, they need something to get repaired and grow back stronger. You can do this by eating the right food. Make sure you eat slowly as there is no rush. Intake foods that have a lot of protein as it contains amino acids which are needed to rebuild your muscles.
Start slow again
Once you have recovered, make sure you start your workout sessions slowly. Ease into it and don’t push yourself. Start slow and then slowly increase the intensity. Always remember to know the limits of your body.
The Takeaway
Muscle aches are common. They regain strength and have the capacity to work harder for a longer period of time. However, take care to avoid damaging your joints, tendons, or muscles. A more significant injury may be indicated by pain that is closer to the joint. There is no better approach to aid in the recovery of your muscles than by consuming a nutritious diet and getting enough sleep. The most crucial action you can take to enhance your muscle recovery is to lead an overall healthy lifestyle. Poor diet and insufficient sleep cannot be made up for by any recuperation technique.