Exercise-induced muscle soreness, known as delayed onset muscle soreness (DOMS), is a common experience for individuals who engage in regular physical activity, including the members of SWEAT440. DOMS is typically characterized by muscle discomfort, stiffness, and reduced range of motion, often peaking within 24 to 48 hours after an intense workout.
One question frequently asked is whether it is beneficial or detrimental to exercise when experiencing DOMS. In this blog post, we will delve into the existing research literature to explore the pros and cons of exercising when sore, providing relevant insights for SWEAT440 members.
“The Effect of Exercising with Delayed-Onset Muscle Soreness on Performance and Recovery: A Systematic Review and Meta-analysis” (Journal of Strength and Conditioning Research, 2017)
This study aimed to examine the impact of exercising with DOMS on performance and recovery. Researchers analyzed 10 independent studies and found several notable outcomes:
Pros:
- Moderate-intensity exercise can alleviate DOMS symptoms, potentially leading to faster recovery.
- Engaging in light aerobic exercise can enhance blood flow, which may facilitate the removal of metabolic waste products and promote muscle repair.
Cons:
- Performing high-intensity exercise during severe DOMS can exacerbate muscle damage, prolong recovery time, and increase the risk of injury.
- Persisting with intense exercise during DOMS may compromise movement patterns and decrease overall training quality.
Moderate-intensity exercise and light aerobic activities are generally beneficial for alleviating DOMS and facilitating recovery. However, it is crucial to avoid high-intensity workouts during severe DOMS to prevent further muscle damage and prolong the recovery process.
“Effects of Exercise on Musculoskeletal Pain: A Systematic Review and Meta-analysis” (British Journal of Sports Medicine, 2017)
This comprehensive review investigated the effects of exercise on musculoskeletal pain, including DOMS. By analyzing 36 studies, the researchers uncovered the following findings:
Pros:
- Engaging in low-intensity exercise during DOMS can help reduce pain perception by stimulating the release of endogenous pain modulators, such as endorphins.
- Gradually increasing exercise intensity and volume can improve pain tolerance and mitigate the severity of DOMS in subsequent workouts.
Cons:
- Performing high-intensity exercise when experiencing severe DOMS may increase pain perception and delay recovery.
- Overtraining or ignoring the body’s warning signs during DOMS can lead to a greater risk of injury and hinder long-term progress.
Low-intensity exercise can be beneficial in managing DOMS-related pain by promoting the release of natural pain-relieving substances. However, exercising beyond the limits of discomfort should be avoided to prevent potential exacerbation of pain and injury.
“The Effects of Resistance Exercise on Muscle Damage and Delayed-Onset Muscle Soreness” (Medicine & Science in Sports & Exercise, 2013)
This study aimed to investigate the relationship between resistance exercise, muscle damage, and DOMS. Findings from various experiments revealed the following insights:
Pros:
- Engaging in light to moderate resistance exercise during DOMS can promote blood flow, enhancing nutrient delivery to damaged muscle fibers and accelerating the repair process.
- Controlled, low-intensity exercise can mitigate the severity of DOMS and potentially lead to adaptations that increase muscle strength and endurance.
Cons:
- Performing high-intensity resistance exercises during severe DOMS can exacerbate muscle damage and extend recovery time.
- Ignoring the signs of excessive muscle soreness and continuing with high-intensity training may compromise muscle function and increase the risk of injury.
Engaging in light to moderate resistance exercise can have positive effects on DOMS,
facilitating the repair process and potentially enhancing muscle adaptations. However, it is crucial to avoid high-intensity resistance workouts during severe DOMS to prevent further muscle damage and impede recovery.
Exercising when sore: Final Recommendation
Based on the current scientific literature, working out when sore can have both pros and cons. While light to moderate exercise and low-intensity activities are generally beneficial for alleviating DOMS and promoting recovery, high-intensity workouts during severe DOMS can increase the risk of injury and prolong the recovery process. Therefore, SWEAT440 members are encouraged to listen to their bodies, opt for lighter workouts during DOMS, and gradually increase intensity as their muscle soreness subsides. Remember, proper recovery is essential for achieving long-term progress and preventing setbacks in your fitness journey.
Biography
Matthew Miller has over 20 years of experience in the fitness industry as a business owner and personal trainer. He holds a BA in Exercise and Sports Science from the University of North Carolina and is CSCS certified through the NSCA. He is currently the Chief Brand Officer of SWEAT440 and the franchisee of SWEAT440 – NODA in Charlotte.
