5 Ways to Ease Sore Muscles

Apply Heat and Say, "Ahh . . ."

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Whether it's a hot tub, steam or sauna room, or just a soak in my tub at home, a little heat always does wonders for sore muscles. Applying heat to muscles reduces pain by increasing blood flow to the area, which helps the small muscle tears causing the pain heal faster.

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Stretch It Out and Move About

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After working out, a good stretch session is a must — lengthening overworked muscle fibers by stretching eases possible post-workout pain. Although, some studies have found that stretching doesn't relieve the lingering pain of a hard fitness session, it can help make muscle fibers healthier and more elastic.

On days when stretching is not enough to relieve pain, light cardio the day after an intense workout improves circulation, warming up your body — and we already know that a little heat goes a long way to help the pain go away!

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Rub the Pain Away

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As if any of us needs an excuse for a massage, getting one is a great way to relieve tension and pain away from muscles. Pamper yourself with a professional massage, ask a friend to do the rubbing for you, or DIY with a foam roller, or tennis ball.

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Cool Yourself Off

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There's a reason elite athletes swear by the post-workout ice bath — it works. The cold temperature constricts blood vessels, which reduces swelling. And when you come out of the bath, your body warms up quickly, improving circulation, which also helps with the healing process. If you're not a fan of shocking cold temps, use ice spot-treat a specific muscle group.

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