Aches and Pains

Any time we shake up our program or increase our weight training intensity, we notice it! Have you found yourself lying in bed in the morning, your entire body slightly achy? You may even wonder if you’re coming down with something?

Research shows that most of your muscle growth actually happens NOT when you’re working out, but when you are resting. Put simply, as the body repairs itself, your muscles grow.

Several times we’ve woken up in the morning, wondering if we’re coming down with the flu. This can present one of those opportunities to separate yourself from the rest of the crowd.

If this happens to you, I suggest that you collect all your mental force and launch yourself out of bed. Most likely you will realize that your muscles are just sore from your body transformation (the “good” sore). Some good stretching and a few gulps of water and you’ll be invigorated and ready to roll!

Cardio is also good when your muscles are sore. It gets your blood pumping, bringing your muscles more oxygen.

HOWEVER, once you get up, you may discover it is NOT just your muscles. You may really be coming down with something. Once again. Listen to your body. If you need additional rest, ‘tis better to take it now than to be out for a week or more. And, it’s a good idea to visit your doctor if anything seems out of the ordinary.

Listen to your body! Just don’t listen to your mind’s excuses. You know the difference.