Regular exercise can keep your heart and muscles in excellent condition. It can also keep your body trim so you can fit into all your favorite outfits. However, muscle soreness is a common side effect of physical activity, especially if you're getting active for the first time. Muscle soreness isn't dangerous, but it can keep you from exercising due to discomfort. It can also negatively impact your day. If you experience muscle aches after working out, here are four remedies you can try:
1. Ice
Ice can help aching muscles feel better, especially if you're experiencing any swelling. Dedicated ice packs can help you save time, especially if you plan to work out often. However, you can also make an ice pack using a zip-top plastic bag filled with ice from your freezer. Wrap the plastic bag in a towel or washcloth and apply it to the sore area on your body for up to fifteen minutes.
2. Hot Water
Soaking your sore muscles in hot water can provide instant relief. If you're pressed for time, you can fill a bucket with hot water to soothe the afflicted part of your body. This is a great solution for sore feet or arms. If you're suffering from full body aches, a hot bath is the most efficient way to remedy your pain. You can fill your bath with Epsom salt for even more pain relief. Some people find that essential oils, such as lavender oil, have a soothing effect on both body and mind.
3. Organic Muscle Relief Body Spray
Topical treatments, such as an organic muscle relief body spray, can provide relief right where you need it. Ointment can be messy and impractical if you don't have access to a sink to wash your hands. Body sprays are a neat and efficient way to apply topical treatments to your body. Find a muscle relief body spray made from organic ingredients so you won't have to worry about pesticides and other contaminants. These sprays are crafted from herbal extracts that have healing properties. Eucalyptus, arnica, and black pepper are all common ingredients that relieve pain and stimulate healing.
4. Stretching
Stretching after your workout sessions is a great way to prevent muscle soreness. However, if you forget, stretching later can still provide benefits. Light stretching is very good for relieving minor aches and pains. You should never feel true pain during stretching, but a slight burning is nothing to be concerned about. Try to stretch for at least five minutes, twice a day.