How Workouts Effect us: One Day to One Year

Howdy everyone! This week we’re talking about the effects of working out from day 1 to year 1. There’s so much more that goes on than you may think. Thank you for reading and we hope you enjoy!

What occurs on the day of exercise:

Engaging in exercise is a cognitive activity that requires coordinated brain function, prompting nerve activity to adopt new movement patterns. This process can be fatiguing, especially when throwing in exercises not practiced on a regular basis. Consequently, feeling tired, even if familiar with the exercises, is a common occurrence.

• During the exercise session, blood circulation increases, supplying muscles with oxygen and nutrients. This stimulates blood vessels and muscle growth.

The day after exercise:

Following a period of inactivity, immediate effects may include a Delayed Onset of Muscle Soreness (DOMS), a normal outcome of intense exercise. DOMS may feel as if you have a bruised or heavy sensation in muscles, typically a day or two post-exercise. Engaging in light exercise, such as walking, aids recovery, though this sensation generally diminishes on its own. Occasionally this feeling may resemble joint pain. Distinguishing between DOMS and joint pain is crucial for injury prevention.

• Post-training, the body's metabolic rate increases during the repair and growth phase. Improved sleep often accompanies this process.

The week after exercise:

Increased energy levels are common due to the mood-boosting effects of exercise, attributed to endorphin release. This positive impact fosters motivation for continued exercise and other activities in life.

• Internally, within muscle cells, mitochondria multiply, enhancing energy release efficiency. However, visible physical changes may not yet be apparent.

After a month of exercise:

Initial weeks bring improved strength, workout tolerance, and quicker recovery, primarily driven by enhanced nerve-muscle connections. Blood vessels expand, improving hydration and blood circulation. Tangible changes in appearance may not be evident until approximately three months of consistent exercise.

After a year of exercise:

Significant effects become noticeable. Muscle endurance improves, strength increases, and joint/muscle pain diminishes. Recreational and everyday activities become easier as well. Overall, a stronger heart, bones, and muscles reduce the risk of chronic diseases. Regular exercise can very well lead to happiness, improved mood, and heightened confidence.