Weightlifters and gym rats know what I’m talking about. You had a great workout, maybe threw in an extra set or two and left the gym with a good pump. Then the next morning hits and if you’re lucky, even the morning after that hits hard, as well. It’s the muscle soreness you feel across your chest as you stretch your arms wide or the sore triceps when you lift your arms above your head. For the uninitiated, it may be cause for alarm, but for the gym rat, that kind of hurt is a good thing. 🤣
Really, that’s the whole premise of “no pain, no gain.” But, when you’re consistent and hit the gym regularly, sticking real close to your routine of choice, it isn’t very long before you no longer experience muscle soreness. Your muscles become accustomed to the strain and the necessary cell breakdown and rebuilding doesn’t occur like it used to. That’s why an extended break is so vital in your muscle building journey.
What does that ‘break’ look like? It can certainly be unintended, like my 10 day break caring for a sick family member. But, I think the best breaks are intentional and planned. You decide to switch up your daily routine by focusing on cardio for a week or maybe changing your approach by incorporating a kettlebell workout or maybe focusing on a HIIT program for a week. This allows for your muscles to relax and to even begin or start toward atrophy. That’s when you hit them with a vengeance: throw in a couple extra sets, add some reps to each set, or intensify your focus. Wow, you’ll feel the soreness you used to love, I promise.
Today, I jumped back into my happy place and swam my laps. Whoever set the water temp was spot on; not too hot and not to cold, either.
50 laps in the pool, 16 minutes on the bike, 12 minutes on the elliptical machine, 6 minutes on the stair climber and 3 minutes rowing. Not to shabby.