How to Reduce Muscle Soreness After a Power Workout

A power workout delivers benefits to the muscles because it builds and strengthens them. The more you work out, the more energized you feel and the easier the routine becomes. However, there are times when muscles become overworked, leading to a decrease in efficiency or worse-- injury. Here are steps to take to reduce muscle soreness after working out.

Things You'll Need

• mat

Instructions

1. Stretch before and after a workout. Just like a car in the morning, it's better for the muscles to warm up before a vigorous exercise routine. On a mat, stretch your arms, torso and legs for 30 to 45 seconds before each workout. When using elliptical trainers or treadmills, be sure to start at a low level for 10 minutes, then work your way up throughout the exercise. After a workout, stay on the machine for a cool down or stretch your body on a mat. Stretching your body also causes it to have a more toned look instead of creating bulky muscles.

2. Don't shower while you're sweaty. Although you will be sweaty after a workout, resist the temptation to shower immediately. Instead, hit the locker room and give yourself and your body time to rest. Drink up, wipe the sweat of your body, and when you feel rested, then shower.

3. Caring for your muscles is the key to every good workout. When you are starting to feel the burn, soak in the tub with Epsom salts. This helps relax the muscles on the onset of soreness.

4. Weight-lift every other day. Don't overwork your muscles. A good rule of thumb is to do cardio everyday while doing weight lifting every other day. This allows the muscles time to rest and rebuild, and helps prevent injury. Your muscle will be ready for the next workout, increasing efficiency in the long run.