03/09/2026
🏋️♀️ Starting exercise? A little muscle soreness is normal — but here's what to watch for.
If you're new to exercise (or getting back into it), some muscle soreness in the day or two after a session is completely normal. It's called DOMS (Delayed Onset Muscle Soreness), and it simply means your muscles are adapting to a new type of load.
But here's the key thing to know: soreness should ease within 24–48 hours.
If it's still lingering 3, 4, or more days later, that's your body telling you something — you've likely started at a load that's too high for where you're at right now. It's not a sign you need to "push through" — it's a sign to scale back and build more gradually.
✅ Some soreness = your body adapting
🚫 Soreness lasting several days = program needs adjusting
Starting an exercise routine should challenge you, not wreck you. If you're unsure whether your program is dialled in correctly, that's exactly what an Accredited Exercise Physiologist is for — we design programs that build strength and fitness safely, at the right pace for your body.
Questions about getting started safely? Drop them below or send me a message. 💬