How to Break Up the Soreness After a Workout
- 1). Start slowly and gradually. When you begin a fitness regimen, it is best to not jump into things too quickly, as that could bring upon shock to your muscles. If you want to break your soreness and pain up, start small and do not overwhelm yourself. For example, begin jogging at a light and brisk pace instead of attempting to run at a marathon speed. Then, as your body adapts to the exercise routine, slowly increase your speed and exercise time.
- 2). Use Epsom salt. The soothing mineral is commonly used to handle muscles that are strained and sore. Run a hot bath and fill up the tub with approximately two cups of the natural salt. Soaking in Epsom salt can relieve pain caused by soreness, along with inflammation.
- 3). Warm up your body before exercising. If you want to reduce soreness after working out, begin all of your exercising with a quick warm-up. Break up the discomfort your body experiences from using new muscles with a quick stretching exercise (roughly five minutes). For instance, put your hands over a wall around the same height as your shoulders. Then, use one leg to move back as the rest of your body moves forward. Maintain a straight back and push your heels downward. Keep the same position for about 10 seconds. Repeat this entire exercise three or four times.
- 4). Move your body. Although moving your body may seem like the last thing you want to do when you are feeling seriously sore, it may actually help to break up the pain. Engage in some light physical activity to alleviate the soreness, such as swimming or bicycle riding.
- 5). Get warm. To reduce the discomfort of sore muscles, add some heat to your body. One way in which to do this is by taking a warm shower. Relax your tired muscles (and nurse them back to optimal fighting condition) by raising your blood flow.
- 6). Apply an anti-inflammatory cream. To decrease body soreness, put an anti-inflammatory cream all over affected parts of your body, such as your upper thighs, calves and arms. These creams typically begin working in 30 minutes or less, and can greatly reduce uncomfortable inflammation and aching.