Wellbeing
The difference between ‘no pain, no gain’ and a little discomfort in exercise
CAITLYN HUTH explains how listening to our bodies can help us decide when we can push our bodies a little further and when we need to stop.
‘Pain during exercise should be avoided’ is a common idea. But if you’re just starting your fitness journey or are dealing with injury flare-ups, this advice could likely prevent your progress.
It’s essential to differentiate between the types of discomfort you might feel while exercising.
While it’s crucial to steer clear of sharp or intense pain, a certain level of discomfort can actually be a sign that your body is adapting and improving.
When you engage in activities that your body isn’t used to, it’s normal for it to react sensitively.
Think of it as your body’s way of saying, “Hey, I need a little more time to get used to this”.
This doesn’t mean you should push through every twinge or ache but, rather, it’s about learning to listen to what your body is telling you.
Sometimes, it might just need a bit of extra support or recovery time.
Instead of adhering to the old ‘no pain, no gain’ mindset, try to reframe your perspective.
Discomfort can often be a part of the growth process.
Remember, discomfort is not usually a threat. However, if you find yourself experiencing sharp or intense pain, that’s a different story: it might be time to evaluate what’s going on.
When pain arises, think of it as feedback from your body.
Ask yourself questions such as: “Is it actually overwhelming muscle fatigue, or perhaps an excessive stretch or tension?” or “is the load simply too heavy?”.
By understanding these signals, you can tailor your workouts to better suit your individual needs.
The ultimate goal isn’t to eliminate pain completely but to help your body respond in a way that promotes strength and resilience.
By facing non-threatening challenges head-on, you’ll gain more control over your fitness journey, rather than feeling like you have to throw in the towel at the first sign of discomfort.
Embrace the process, listen to your body and adapt as you go.
Caitlyn Huth is an exercise physiologist at Full Circle Wellness. Call 5456 1599 or visit fullcirclewellness.com.au
