The duration of post-exercise muscle soreness can vary significantly from person to person. Typically, after performing weighted squats, you might experience muscle soreness in your legs and glutes for around 24 to 48 hours after the workout. This condition is known as Delayed Onset Muscle Soreness (DOMS).
DOMS is a natural response to intense physical activity, especially when introducing new exercises, increasing intensity, or performing more repetitions. It’s a result of tiny tears in the muscle fibers caused by eccentric (lengthening) contractions during exercise.
However, the duration of soreness can depend on several factors:
Fitness Level:
Beginners or individuals new to squats might experience soreness for a longer period compared to seasoned athletes.
Intensity:
Heavier weights or higher repetitions can increase the likelihood and duration of muscle soreness.
Recovery:
Adequate rest, proper nutrition, hydration, and stretching post-workout can help alleviate soreness and expedite recovery.
Individual Variation:
Each person’s body reacts differently. Some individuals might recover faster from soreness compared to others.
If the pain persists beyond 72 hours or if it’s severe and affects your daily activities, it might indicate an issue beyond typical DOMS. In such cases, it’s advisable to consult a healthcare professional to rule out any potential injuries.
Remember, incorporating a proper warm-up, gradually increasing intensity, and allowing for adequate rest and recovery can help manage muscle soreness post-exercise.