Growing Muscles

The other day, as per usual, I was complaining about how sore my body was from taking a class at the gym. It was TABATA, and what a killer! My abs, arms, and thighs were seriously pained. Note to self - avoid burpees at all cost. The next day, the gang and I went for a lengthy bike ride, which made me even more sore - oh the hills! Once again, I bitched. My best girl, Rootin' Tootin' Newton, looked me straight in the eye and said, "Dude, growing muscles is hard work!"

She speaks the truth.

Newton said some other stuff, but I must confess I was crying too loud inside to actually listen. (Just kidding, Beckers, I listened, and did my own research for this post.) All-in-all, this has been a very informative week, and I'm about to drop some knowledge on you.

*** The following medical info was borrowed (stolen) and paraphrased from BuiltLean contributor, John Levya. He's wicked smart. ***

Did you know there are 650 skeletal muscles in the human body? I'm pretty sure 639 of mine were screaming during my workouts this week. Here's what's interesting: after a workout, your body repairs or replaces damaged muscle fibers through a cellular process which fuses the fibers together to create new muscle protein. These fibers increase in thickness and number to create growth.  

Added to the new muscle fibers, there are satellite cells that also contribute. When you work out, specifically when you lift weight or pump it up, you damage your muscles. This causes inflammatory molecules and immune system cells that activate the satellite cells. Those little guys help to repair your damaged muscles to grow big and strong. So, in conclusion, growing muscles is, in fact, hard work.

I've been sore all week. Wednesday night I almost got stuck in my bed, because my abs were so sore I couldn't sit up. I had to call my dog to jump in the bed, so I could use him for support. Still, with Newton's wise words ringing in my ears, I went to Body Pump on Thursday... and lived. I did more than live, I actually really liked the class, and will definitely make it a part of my weekly schedule. 

Today, my muscles are repairing and growing. Because of the shoulder work in BP, I can't lift my arms above my head; however, I am now educated enough to embrace the pain, as it means my muscles are responding! I can definitely feel those little satellite cells jumping into action and building me some nice, strong, healthy guns. Next summer I will wear nothing but sleeveless shirts when it's sunny. 

I'm mostly writing today so that I can encourage you to just get out there and damage some muscles. Don't be afraid of being sore - relish it! Don't be shy about taking a new class, or trying a new exercise - just do it! I know its corny, but try every day to be the best version of yourself; get outside, breath the fresh air, be kind always, and GROW SOME MUSCLES.

SIDE NOTE: Your muscles also need REST and GOOD NUTRITION to grow. Don't ever forget your rest days!