Exhausted After An Intense Workout?

It’s normal to feel tired or fatigued after a workout, or returning after a long hiatus.

If you’re ever returning via a group fitness class, with a personal trainer and/or strength coach, then you’ll always be advised with the following advice:

1. Go at your own pace

2. Take rest if needed

3. We’ll build up your [ insert physical highlights such as strength, PR, conditioning, etc.] but it’ll take some time.

There’s something called Rhabdomyolysis.

What is it exactly? The simple and short version is that the results of having an intense workout or physical activity overwhelming your body. Though it’s extremely rare, it can be fatal.

According to the Centers for Disease and Control Prevention (CDC), the exact definition of rhabdomyolysis is the “... breakdown of damaged muscle which results in the release of muscle cell contents into the blood. The proteins and electrolytes released into the blood can cause organ damage.”

Now, if you’re probably thinking, what exactly does that have to do with working out, especially if it’s rare and I’m being safe?

It’s still something important to be aware of, always to listen to your body and not go past your limits. For example, rhabdomyolysis was associated with CrossFit due the high level of intensity associated with their workouts of the day, or ‘WOD.’ If you Google ‘crossfit’ and ‘rhabdomyolysis’ together, then you’ll see multiple pages. There’s also an article in a medical journal dedicated to rhabdomyolysis and its association with CrossFit (click here if you want to read it).

Am I implying that CrossFit is dangerous? Nope! Just like any exercise or fitness regimen, remember to do the following: you must pace yourself, and work with qualified fitness professionals to assist you and they’ll be vigilant of any medical conditions / physical limitations, and be experienced enough to provide modifications if the situation arises. Plus, many CrossFit gyms, or also known as ‘boxes,’ with quality coaches will have smart programming, along with introductory classes for beginners to slowly progress to more advanced classes with proper supervision.

What is the overall message here? Respect your body and listen to when you need to rest. There can be negative results from pushing yourself past your limits.

Disclaimer: This blog post is meant for educational purposes only and not to be used to diagnose or for medical advice. Seek out a medical professional before beginning a new exercise regimen.