I’M SUPER SORE!
Chronic soreness can be a warning sign of overtraining, which can lead to injury and hinder progress towards long-term fitness goals.
In addition to physical preparation, it is also important to train your mind for longevity in your fitness journey. Mental training examples such as visualization and positive self-talk can help you stay motivated and prevent burnout.
For example, visualizing yourself successfully completing a difficult workout can help you push through when you feel like giving up, and positive self-talk can help you stay motivated and focused on your goals.
Chronic muscle soreness, also known as myofascial pain, is a persistent and ongoing discomfort or pain that is often caused by tension, stress, or injury to the muscles and surrounding connective tissues. While stretching, massage, and ibuprofen may provide temporary relief, they may not address the underlying causes of chronic muscle soreness.
According to the Somatic Movement Center, chronic muscle soreness may also be caused by habitual postural patterns, emotional stress, and repetitive movements. As such, treatment may involve a multifaceted approach that includes not only physical solutions but also mind-body techniques such as somatic movement therapy, yoga, and meditation.
Taking a day or two off from workouts can be beneficial in several ways:
Recovery: When you exercise, you are essentially breaking down muscle tissue. Rest days allow your body to repair and recover from the stress of exercise, which is essential for muscle growth and repair.
Injury Prevention: Rest days can help prevent injuries that can occur from overuse or repetitive movements. By giving your body time to recover, you can reduce the risk of developing strains, sprains, or other injuries.
Mental Health: Taking a break from your workout routine can help you avoid burnout and maintain your motivation. It can also provide a mental break from the stress and pressure of working out, which can be beneficial for your overall well-being.
Performance: Rest days can actually improve your performance by allowing your body to recharge and recover. When you return to your workouts after a day or two of rest, you may find that you have more energy, stamina, and strength.
Taking a day or two off from workouts can be a good thing because it allows your body to recover, prevents injuries, improves mental health, and enhances performance. It allows your body to feel well rested. However, it’s important to note that the frequency of rest days should be tailored to your individual needs and fitness goals.
To Your Health,
Your ExPo LIFE FITNESS TEAM
[1] “General information on how to use the Harvard Referencing Style (Faculty of Health Sciences – UP, December 2012: Department of Nursing Science Department of Physiotherapy)