Should You Still Exercise If Your Body Is Sore From The Last Time??

Here’s our latest Q&A with Jen Cohen… and it’s something we’ve always wondered about too, but just kept forgetting to ask someone who’d know!!

A reader asks:

Some days after I have done a hard work out my body is really sore.

Should I still exercise even if my body is sore?

According to Jen:

Depends on what type of sore. It’s normal to feel sore or stiff after a hard workout, especially when you’re starting something new – if you’re having physical pains, then it’s time to see a doctor. For regular soreness, here are 4 things you can do to prevent soreness and help work through the discomfort you have now:
1. Dynamic stretching at the beginning and end of your workouts; dynamic stretching is controlled stretching while moving. A good move is high-stepping, bringing your legs up high as you go.
2. Change the muscle groups you work from day to day. If your legs and abs are sore from yesterday’s work-out, focus on arms, chest and back today.
3. Stay hydrated – your body won’t function efficiently if you don’t water it!
4. Work away soreness with low intensity exercise, like walking or like cycling. These activities get the blood flowing and reduce the build-up of lactic acid built up from working out, which will help soreness.

We figured this was the case, but it’s definitely good to know!

Keep up the good work, Perezcious Reader! We’re glad to hear you’re keeping in shape! And thanks, Jen!

If you have any questions for Jen, email them over at [email protected] or tweet @JenCohenNGR!