Are aches and Pains normal when exercising?

Hi Pam,

That's a good question. Because you are starting out on a new exercise program, I would say being sore is very normal. Your body is not use to the exercise and is feeling it. If the pain doesn't subside within 24 hours, but just gets worse, than that is not okay. You need to try a different kind of exercise. But if you are sore for a day or two and the pain is not getting worse, this is normal. Your muscles are breaking down and rebuilding, and this is what you want. The pain should lessen as you continue to exercise on a REGULAR basis. If your knees or joints are bothering you, you may want to consider getting new shoes, or changing up your mode of exercise. Don't always walk. Do you have a bike or access to a pool? I think it is a good investment in your health to join a gym or buy a bike so that you can keep a healthy lifestyle. Exercising in different ways helps you to build muscle all over your body and keep your exercise routine interesting. A lot of times, as people lose the weight, their joints hurt less when they exercise, because they have less weight to carry around.

Good luck and have fun!