Delayed onset muscle soreness is discomfort that commonly develops several hours after unfamiliar or demanding exercise.
Why DOMS matters
Soreness can indicate that training was novel, but it is not a reliable measurement of workout quality or muscle growth.
A practical example
Feeling thigh soreness one or two days after returning to squats following a break.
Common mistake
Chasing severe soreness every session or training painfully restricted movement.
Keep the context in mind.
Training and nutrition terms describe general principles. The right exercise, intensity or food target still depends on your experience, health, goals and schedule.
Personalised coaching
Apply the principle to your own training.
A definition is useful, but your programme still needs to match your experience, schedule, recovery and goals.
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