Sitting for long periods of time can make us crave a good workout, where we can break a sweat and feel refreshed. However, it's not uncommon to hear people complain about feeling sore all over after exercising. So, how can we relieve post-workout soreness?
Causes of Post-Workout Soreness
During exercise, our bodies produce lactic acid and alcohol. When we don't exercise regularly and then suddenly engage in physical activity, the lactic acid and alcohol can cause a feeling of soreness.
For example, after running or doing squats, our legs may feel sore, or after doing sit-ups, our stomachs might ache. Playing sports can also lead to soreness in our arms and other body parts.
Massage for Immediate Relief
When experiencing full-body soreness after a workout, it's important to massage the affected areas as soon as possible. This can help break down the lactic acid and alcohol, providing relief from soreness.
Take a Walk before Resting
After exercising, it's best not to immediately sit down and rest. Instead, try to walk for a while. This can help alleviate the feeling of soreness and provide relief.
Hot Showers to Ease Soreness
Taking a hot shower after exercising can promote blood circulation and help relax the muscles. This can effectively reduce fatigue and provide a sense of physical and mental release, gradually alleviating the feeling of soreness.
Alternate Hot and Cold Compress to Relieve Soreness
While the feeling of icing may not be as pleasant as applying heat, it can effectively reduce muscle damage and decrease the sensation of full-body soreness. Icing can also reduce the inflammation that causes muscle soreness. Generally, after 24 hours of icing, switching to heat can enhance blood circulation and accelerate the metabolism of inflammation factors, providing maximum relief from full-body soreness.
Consistency in Exercise
Regardless of the type of exercise, it is important to maintain a regular routine rather than sporadically engaging in physical activity. Consistent exercise ensures better fat burning and prevents the accumulation of lactic acid and alcohol in the body, reducing the chances of experiencing full-body soreness.
