Have you ever experienced that intense muscle soreness a day or two after an intense workout? That’s Delayed Onset Muscle Soreness (DOMS), a common result of physical activity that stresses the muscle tissue beyond what it’s accustomed to.
What is DOMS? DOMS is the pain and stiffness felt in muscles several hours to days after unaccustomed or strenuous exercise. The soreness is felt most strongly 24 to 72 hours after the exercise. It is thought to be caused by eccentric (lengthening) exercise, which causes microtrauma to the muscle fibers.
DOMS vs. Lactic Acid Many people confuse DOMS with the accumulation of lactic acid in the muscles, but they’re not the same thing. Lactic acid is a byproduct of intense exercise that can cause discomfort during the workout itself, but it’s cleared from your muscles shortly after you stop exercising. DOMS, on the other hand, sets in after the workout and can last for several days.
Is DOMS Good or Bad? Experiencing DOMS after a workout can be a double-edged sword. On one hand, it’s a sign that you’ve pushed your muscles hard enough to cause microtears, which when repaired, can lead to muscle growth and increased strength. On the other hand, severe DOMS can be debilitating and may interfere with your regular workout routine.
Does DOMS Lead to Muscle Growth? While DOMS is a sign of muscle damage, it doesn’t necessarily equate to muscle growth. Muscle growth occurs when you consistently place stress on your muscles, causing damage that your body repairs, leading to increased muscle size over time. However, you don’t need to experience DOMS after every workout to achieve muscle growth.
In conclusion, while DOMS can be a sign that you’ve had an effective workout, it’s not a definitive measure of muscle growth. It’s important to listen to your body and give it time to recover between workouts to achieve optimal results.