If you've ever tried a new exercise or activity that involves eccentric muscle work (the motion of an active muscle while it is lengthening under load), or pushed yourself hard during a training session, then there is a good chance that you have experienced delayed onset muscle soreness (DOMS). In mild cases, DOMS causes a noticeable yet tolerable tenderness in the muscles that for many is proof of a hard workout. However, in more serious cases DOMS can be quite painful and sometimes a debilitating experience that can be a deterrence of strength training and a cause to a slow recovery.

Delayed onset muscle soreness explained

DOMS is the pain and stiffness that is felt in muscles lasting up to multiple days after strenuous, or unaccustomed, exercise. This muscular soreness is usually felt most intensely 1 to 3 days after the workout – often called the ‘two- or three- day burn’. DOMS is a symptom of exercise-induced muscle damage and can be felt as a dull, aching pain in the affected muscle or muscles, typically felt only when the muscle is put under load/strain, stretched or contracted.

fighting DOMS?

Taking supplements containing magnesium for DOMS has long been recommended to help reduce soreness and help promote muscle recovery. Magnesium aids in the regulation of neuromuscular signals, muscle contractions and the active transportation of calcium and potassium across cellular membranes. These muscle-relaxing qualities help reduce muscular aches, pains and cramps.

what are the Additional benefits magnesium supplements?

In addition to helping reduce muscular aches, pains and cramps, magnesium has numerous other additional benefits for your health and well-being. It promotes calm and is known to relax nerves, helping you get a good night's sleep.

Its muscle relaxing qualities can also aid with constipation by relaxing the intestinal muscles, it can also decrease the frequency and severity of migraines and the cramps and discomfort experienced during premenstrual syndrome (PMS). Magnesium can also help strengthen bones, assist with blood circulation, and promote a healthy pregnancy.