Let’s talk about muscle soreness. Because it’s not what you think.
Firstly, you do NOT need to be sore to have made progress. That feeling of barely being able to walk the next day is not a sign that your workout was “better” or more effective. You can still be making progress without the soreness.
On the flip side, if you are sore for a few days, don’t panic! It’s normal, especially if you’ve done something new, lifted heavier, or increased your volume. As long as it settles by day 3 or 4, it’s just delayed onset muscle soreness (DOMS).
What also influences soreness?
✅ Nutrition
✅ Hydration
✅ Sleep
✅ Stress levels
Bottom line—soreness is just feedback, not a goal. Instead, track your progress with:
➡️ Consistency
➡️ The weights you’re lifting
➡️ The reps you have in reserve
Because that is what really moves the needle.