There is an antiquated saying in the fitness industry “no pain no gain” and it has been scientifically proven false!
Dr Alan R. Light, a professor at the University of Utah, conducted an experiment where he gave mild opiates to cyclists to block the pain messages from the muscles to the brain, so that cyclists could “ride through the pain” and get bigger gains – right?
Unfortunately, without the activation of the pain receptors in the brain the muscles kept working and without warning the legs buckled to near paralysation. Dr. Light concluded, “Ignoring fatigue and pain is not a good, long-term competitive strategy.”
While it is perfectly normal when starting a new fitness program to feel some soreness the following day, after a few weeks the body adjusts and it is more able to cope when placed under the stress of exercise.
Thereafter, strength and fitness gains are consistently achieved provided the resistance increases steadily. Uncomfortable or difficult exercises soon give way to pleasurable workouts as endorphins released become a powerful motivator.
What then is a good indication of working hard? Sweat of course! Sweat is the by-product of the muscles working hard to build, tone and re-shape the body. To do this, muscles must use stored energy (fat is a stored energy) as fuel; sweat is simply the “exhaust fumes.”
Let’s work up a sweat and enjoy!
Anna
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