Feeling sore after a workout?

Feeling sore from a workout?

Whether you came back from a hiatus or have been consistent for a while?

It happens, and completely normal. The short & sweet version is called "DOMS" or delayed onset muscle soreness. It usually strikes within 24-72 hours.

What is abnormal if you're feeling debilitating pain and the discomfort goes past a week. If you nodded yes to the above, then it's best to see a healthcare provider to rule anything out before you start an exercise regimen again. Better to be safe than sorry.

Some of the best ways to either cope with, or reduce cramps include the following:

• Adequately hydrated with water

• Drink fluids with electrolytes. Think Gatorade or coconut water.

• Eat foods with potassium, sodium, etc. Try an avocado or a salty snack.

• Rest!

• Stay away from icing. The medical doctor, Gabe Mirkin, was known for his study in at 1978 on how ice will help with healing. It's considered the golden rule for many medical professionals such as medical doctors (M.D./D.O) and physical therapists (DPT); however, he actually had redacted the study and stated that ice can worsen the situation.

Sources:

• https://www.drmirkin.com/fitness/why-ice-delays-recovery.html

• Edith Cowan University. "Muscle cramp? Drink electrolytes, not water, study shows." ScienceDaily. ScienceDaily, 18 March 2021. <www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2021/03/210318101536.htm>

• Cara Rosenbloom, RD. "Electrolytes Better for Cramp Prevention Than Pure Water, Study Shows." VeryWellFit. VeryWellFit, 26 March 2021 <https://www.verywellfit.com/electrolyte-drink-may-help-prevent-muscle-cramps-study-shows-5118066>