Are squats and deadlifts part of your regular gym routine? If so, then you probably know that climbing the stairs or sitting on the toilet can be particularly challenging after leg day.
When you work out harder than usual or try an unfamiliar exercise, you might find yourself experiencing delayed onset muscle soreness (DOMS) afterward.
As the name suggests, DOMS refers to discomfort, weakness, or fatigue that starts to kick in about 24-48 hours after exercising. It is most common among those who are starting an exercise routine, especially strength training.
DOMS can sometimes be so bad that athletes think of it as an injury.
What Are The Signs Of DOMS?
DOMS is an intense type of bodily discomfort. Generally speaking, it’s something that should feel bearable.
However, if it does not go away after two to three days, it is best to consult a doctor to make sure that you are not dealing with anything serious.
Other symptoms associated with DOMS are tenderness in the affected area, stiffness, and temporary weakness.
DOMS is usually caused by an increase in intensity or repetitions of a particular exercise. Doing an unfamiliar movement may cause DOMS, too.
It is believed to be caused by the microscopic tears in muscle fibers that develop because of exercise. It is a temporary condition, and there is no evidence showing that DOMS leads to permanent loss of strength.
Boost Your Recovery With These Steps
What are some things you can do to deal with the problem?
- Use A Foam Roller - Try massaging yourself with a foam roller after exercising. This will help relieve certain parts of your body.
- Opt For Active Recovery - Try to do light, low-impact exercises on your rest day. Walking or swimming works well.
- Give Your Body What It Needs - Eat and drink properly to make sure that you get enough nutrition and hydration.
- Have An Epsom Salt Bath - Epsom salt can soothe your entire body during the recovery period.
Try Our Pure Epsom Salt Products
While you are recovering from your workout, try using any of our epsom salt products at Better Bath Better Body. Having an epsom salt muscle soak will allow you to relax so you can prepare for your next session at the gym.
Our Athlete Bath Soak is enhanced with pine and eucalyptus essential oils that will make you feel and smell good. You’ll love using it after every workout.
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