How to minimize soreness and increase motivation between workouts
Do you feel sore after every workout? Is it a major factor discouraging you from showing up at the gym and keeping you from reaching your fitness goals? You're not alone! No matter where someone is on their fitness journey, there’s a good chance that they experience post-workout soreness. The good news is that there are techniques to significantly reduce the severity and keep yourself motivated between workouts till you hit those fitness goals.
1. Always warm up
A very impressive and effective way to protect your muscle from soreness is to ensure they are well-prepared for the challenge they're about to face. You do this by warming up, allowing your muscles to get adjust before beginning more rigorous activity. Warming up not only prepares your body, but it also prepares you mentally, helping you feel ready to crush your workout.
2. Start slowly and go at your own pace
You can't just go from step 0 to 100 and not expect your body to face the repercussions. It is essential you walk your body through the steps slowly. An expert tip to minimizing muscle soreness during a workout is to give your body time to adapt to a particular routine and gradually increase the intensity of the routine over days or weeks. What's most important is that you go at your pace and go slowly; your muscles will thank you for it.
3. Get an exercise partner
One of the best ways to stay motivated during a workout despite the soreness your body feels is to find a friend you work out with. An exercise buddy is a constant reminder that you're not alone in this fitness journey.
You share the same goals and plan your workout time together. They are always there to ensure you stay accountable. On days you don't feel like working out, they are there to encourage you and make sure you don't quit.
4. Set goals for yourself
Setting goals is a great way to motivate ourselves and to keep ourselves exercising. Set short-term and long-term goals for workouts. You can decide to walk for 1 hour each day for a week. You could also choose to go to a gym every day and spend an hour daily.
What's important is that you set realistic goals for yourself and you stick with them. Over time you’ll find that your muscles have strengthened and recovery between workouts may become less strained.
5. Reward yourself
The reward system is one that's often underestimated. It, however, goes a long way to keep us glued to what we set out to achieve. Once you hit your target, you could reward yourself with something fun you want to do. You could watch your favorite movie or cook dinner with friends.
Incorporate these practices and start hitting your fitness goals.
