How To Reduce Muscle Soreness After Lifting
If you’ve ever pushed yourself in the gym, you’ve likely experienced muscle soreness the next day. This discomfort, known as Delayed Onset Muscle Soreness (DOMS), occurs when your muscles repair and strengthen after intense exercise. While soreness is a sign of progress, it can also be frustrating if it hinders your daily activities or next workout. Fortunately, there are several effective ways to speed up muscle recovery, and many top-rated products on Amazon can help reduce soreness. Below, we’ll explore the best ways to recover faster and the top Amazon products that can make a real difference.
Why Does Muscle Soreness Happen?
When you lift weights, you create microscopic tears in your muscle fibers. As your body repairs these tears, the muscles become stronger and more resilient. This healing process can cause inflammation and discomfort, typically peaking 24-48 hours post-workout.
To reduce muscle soreness, it’s essential to prioritize recovery methods that enhance circulation, reduce inflammation, and provide the nutrients your muscles need for repair. The following products are designed to do just that!
1. Nutricost Creatine Monohydrate Micronized Powder
Why It Helps:
Creatine is a well-researched supplement that aids in muscle recovery, energy production, and strength gains. By replenishing the body’s ATP (energy) levels, creatine helps muscles recover faster after a strenuous workout.
How to Use It:
- Mix one scoop (5g) with water, juice, or your protein shake post-workout.
- For best results, consider a loading phase (20g per day for 5-7 days) before switching to 5g daily. Check it out on Amazon
2. XTEND Original BCAA Powder
Why It Helps:
Branched-Chain Amino Acids (BCAAs) play a crucial role in muscle repair, reducing soreness and fatigue. They also help prevent muscle breakdown during intense workouts.
How to Use It:
- Mix one scoop with cold water and sip during or after your workout.
- Can also be consumed on rest days to support recovery.
💡 Tip: Try the watermelon or blue raspberry flavors for a refreshing post-workout drink.
3. MuscleTech Platinum Pure Micronized Glutamine Powder
Why It Helps:
Glutamine is an amino acid that supports muscle repair and immune function, making it a must-have for post-workout recovery.
How to Use It:
- Add one scoop (5g) to your post-workout protein shake or smoothie.
- Best taken after exercise and before bed for overnight recovery. Find it on Amazon
4. Tiger Balm Pain Relieving Ultra Strength Ointment
Why It Helps:
Tiger Balm provides instant cooling and warmth to sore muscles, helping to alleviate stiffness and discomfort.
How to Use It:
- Massage a small amount into sore muscles 2-3 times a day.
- Avoid applying it to broken or irritated skin.
Pro Tip: Apply it before bed for overnight relief.
5. Penetrex Joint & Muscle Therapy Roll-On Gel
Why It Helps:
This roll-on gel contains arnica, vitamin B6, and MSM, which work together to relieve muscle pain and inflammation.
How to Use It:
- Apply directly to sore areas up to 3 times a day.
- Best used after a shower when pores are open for better absorption. Check it out
6. Biofreeze Professional Menthol Pain Relieving Spray
Why It Helps:
Biofreeze offers instant cooling relief for muscle soreness, reducing inflammation without the mess of creams.
How to Use It:
- Spray directly onto sore muscles, avoiding eyes and sensitive areas.
- Use before or after workouts for relief. Get it here
7. Zumba Beauty Muscle Recovery Balm
Why It Helps:
This balm combines arnica, hemp seed oil, and menthol to relieve soreness and promote relaxation.
How to Use It:
- Apply a small amount to sore muscles and massage gently.
- Use it after stretching or yoga for added relief. Shop here
8. The Feel Good Lab Sport Recovery Lotion
Why It Helps:
This natural lotion is free from harsh chemicals and packed with arnica, MSM, and essential oils to speed up recovery.
How to Use It:
- Massage into sore muscles after a workout.
- Use it before bedtime to wake up with less stiffness. View on Amazon
9. KT Health Magnesium Cream
Why It Helps:
Magnesium is crucial for muscle relaxation and cramp prevention, making this cream an excellent option for athletes.
How to Use It:
- Rub a small amount onto sore areas before bed.
- Ideal for those who experience nighttime leg cramps. Buy here
10. Nekteck Shiatsu Neck and Back Massager
Why It Helps:
This electric massager delivers deep tissue kneading with heat to relieve muscle tension and soreness.
How to Use It:
- Place on your neck, back, or shoulders and turn on for a 15-minute massage.
- Use after workouts or before bed for relaxation. Check it out
Final Thoughts
Muscle soreness is a natural part of any strength training routine, but it doesn’t have to slow you down. By using the right recovery products and incorporating good habits like hydration, stretching, and proper nutrition, you can significantly reduce post-workout discomfort and enhance your fitness journey. Whether you prefer supplements, topical relief, or massage tools, there’s an option for everyone. Try out some of these highly-rated Amazon products today and take control of your recovery!