What is a possible consequence of prolonged muscle soreness?

Prolonged muscle soreness, often known as delayed onset muscle soreness (DOMS), can lead to decreased motivation and may contribute to overtraining syndrome. When individuals experience persistent muscle soreness, they might find physical activity to be uncomfortable, leading to a lack of enthusiasm for training. This can result in a reduced workout frequency or intensity, which hinders overall performance and progress.

Additionally, if the soreness is chronic due to inadequate recovery between training sessions, it may indicate that the body is not fully recuperating from the demands placed on it. This state can escalate to overtraining syndrome, characterized by not just physical symptoms like fatigue and soreness, but also psychological factors such as decreased motivation and increased irritability. Managing muscle soreness is crucial for athletes and those engaged in regular physical activity to ensure they remain motivated and avoid the negative effects of overtraining.