Exercise is an integral part of a healthy lifestyle, but it often leaves us with the unpleasant aftermath of muscle soreness.
Delayed onset muscle soreness (DOMS) is the discomfort experienced after engaging in physical activity, particularly when trying new exercises or increasing the intensity of workouts.
While muscle soreness is a natural response to exercise, it can hinder our ability to perform daily activities and hamper our motivation to continue working out. The good news is that there are effective ways to alleviate muscle soreness and promote a faster recovery.
Here are 12 proven strategies to help you relieve muscle soreness after exercise, allowing you to bounce back stronger and achieve your fitness goals.
One of the simplest and most effective ways to reduce muscle soreness is to incorporate stretching exercises into your workout routine. Engaging in static stretching or dynamic movements after your workout helps lengthen the muscles and improve flexibility, reducing tension and promoting faster recovery.
Pay particular attention to the muscles you worked during the session, holding each stretch for 30 seconds. Including a proper cool down period after exercising gradually brings your heart rate down and prevents blood pooling in the muscles, decreasing the risk of soreness.
2. Foam Rolling and Self Myofascial Release
Foam rolling, also known as self-myofascial release, is an excellent technique for easing muscle soreness. This self massage technique involves using a foam roller to apply pressure to targeted muscles, releasing knots and tightness.
By breaking up adhesions in the fascia (the connective tissue surrounding muscles) foam rolling enhances blood flow, reduces inflammation and speeds up recovery.
Focus on areas of discomfort, rolling slowly back and forth for 30-60 seconds. Be sure to breathe deeply and relax into the pressure to maximise the benefits.
3. Contrast Showers
Contrast showers involve alternating between hot and cold water, stimulating blood circulation and aiding in the removal of metabolic waste products from the muscles. The hot water relaxes the muscles and dilates blood vessels, while the cold water constricts blood vessels, reducing inflammation and providing analgesic effects.
Begin with 2-3 minutes of hot water, followed by 30 seconds of cold water. Repeat this cycle 2-3 times, always ending with cold water. This technique can be particularly effective when used immediately after exercise.
4. Apply Heat
Heat therapy is a classic method for relieving muscle soreness. Applying heat to sore muscles increases blood flow, promotes muscle relaxation and helps alleviate pain.
You can use a heating pad or warm towel, or take a hot bath to experience the benefits. Ensure the heat is not too intense and avoid direct contact with the skin. Apply heat for 15-20 minutes, allowing the warmth to penetrate the muscles deeply.
5. Ice Therapy
In contrast to heat therapy, ice therapy or cryotherapy is beneficial for reducing inflammation and numbing soreness. Applying an ice pack or cold compress to the affected areas constricts blood vessels, reducing swelling and dulling pain signals.
Wrap the ice pack in a thin towel to prevent direct contact with the skin and apply it for 15-20 minutes. Ice therapy is particularly effective within the first 24-48 hours after intense exercise.
6. Proper Nutrition
Fuelling your body with the right nutrients is crucial for muscle recovery. After exercise, consume a balanced meal or snack containing high quality protein, complex carbohydrates and healthy fats.
Protein provides amino acids necessary for muscle repair and growth, while carbohydrates replenish glycogen stores, which are depleted during intense workouts. Healthy fats, such as those found in avocados and nuts, help reduce inflammation and support overall recovery.
Make sure to stay hydrated by drinking plenty of water throughout the day, as dehydration can exacerbate muscle soreness. Consider incorporating foods rich in anti-inflammatory properties such as berries, leafy greens and turmeric into your diet to further aid in reducing muscle soreness.
7. Active Recovery
Engaging in light, low impact activities on your rest days can facilitate muscle recovery and alleviate soreness. Active recovery promotes blood circulation, which helps flush out metabolic waste products and deliver nutrients to the muscles.
Activities such as swimming, cycling or gentle yoga can improve flexibility, decrease muscle stiffness and enhance overall mobility. Be mindful to keep the intensity low and focus on movement patterns that target different muscle groups than those worked during your previous workout.
8. Massage Therapy
Massage is a fantastic way to relax tight muscles, enhance circulation and reduce muscle soreness. A professional massage therapist can apply various techniques to release tension and knots in the muscles, promoting healing and recovery.
If professional massage sessions are not accessible, self massage techniques using your hands, a massage ball, or a handheld massager can also be effective in relieving muscle soreness. Massage the affected areas using circular motions, gradually increasing pressure as tolerated.
9. Get Sufficient Rest
Allowing your body enough time to rest and recover is essential for muscle repair. During sleep, the body produces growth hormone which aids in tissue regeneration.
Aim for 7-9 hours of quality sleep each night to optimise recovery and reduce muscle soreness. Create a comfortable sleep environment, establish a relaxing bedtime routine and limit exposure to electronic devices before bed to improve sleep quality.
10. Gradually Increase Exercise Intensity
Prevention is key when it comes to muscle soreness. Gradually increasing the intensity and duration of your workouts allows your muscles to adapt and minimises the risk of excessive soreness.
Avoid sudden spikes in activity or significantly increasing weight loads too quickly. Gradual progression gives your body time to adjust and build strength, reducing the likelihood of excessive muscle damage and soreness.
11. Epsom Salt Bath
Epsom salt - scientifically known as magnesium sulfate - is renowned for its therapeutic properties. When dissolved in warm water it releases magnesium and sulfate ions that can be absorbed through the skin.
Magnesium is an essential mineral involved in muscle function and relaxation. It helps regulate neuromuscular signals and reduces muscle contractions and spasms. Sulfate aids in detoxification and supports the body's natural anti-inflammatory processes.
12. Grounding
Grounding, also known as earthing, is a practice that involves connecting with the Earth's electrical energy by walking barefoot on natural surfaces or using grounding mats or sheets indoors.
The Earth's surface is rich in negatively charged electrons. When we make direct contact with the earth, these electrons can enter our bodies and help reduce inflammation and promote healing.
Some studies suggest that grounding may have analgesic and anti-inflammatory effects, which could contribute to alleviating muscle soreness after exercise. To incorporate grounding into your routine, spend time walking barefoot on grass or sand, or consider using grounding mats or sheets inside your home to maintain a connection with the Earth's energy.
To learn more about grounding, its benefits and scientific research, read my post: What is Earthing? The Health Benefits of Grounding
Experiencing muscle soreness after exercise is a normal part of the training process, but it doesn't have to derail your fitness journey. By incorporating these 12 effective strategies into your post workout routine you can significantly alleviate muscle soreness and enhance your recovery.
Experiment with these methods and find the ones that work best for your body and preferences. Remember, listening to your body's cues and giving it the care it needs will enable you to bounce back stronger, maintain consistency and achieve your fitness goals quicker.