29/10/2025
Is the saying "no pain, no gain" really true? It is really necessary to experience pain during exercise in order to reap benefits?
The truth is that discomfort during exercise varies depending on a few factors.
Though exercise often involves pushing your body past its comfort zone, the resulting muscle soreness and fatigue should usually happen during or after exercise and subside within a few hours or days.
Discomfort during exercise is normal and can include:
✔️Mild soreness 24-72 hours post-exercise
✔️Discomfort during effort (eg. burning in muscles, shortness of breath, increased heart rate)
✔️Feeling challenged, not injured
What's NOT normal can include:
⚠️Pain that lingers or worsens
⚠️Joint pain, stabbing sensations, or swelling
⚠️Pain that alters or affects your movement or posture
This pain during exercise shouldn't be ignored or brushed off as a natural result of physical activity - it may be a sign of underlying injury, improper form or overexertion.
"No pain, no gain" may sound tough, but knowing when to rest, adapt and recover isn't being weak - it's being wise.
📍 If you suspect or are experiencing chronic pain and would like to learn more about management options, visit our website and/or reach out.