I’m sure many of you have experienced the following painful symptoms when working out with me: Your muscles feel like they might be caught in some kind of exercise-induced wildfire from all the lactic burn.  Oxygen seems to suddenly be at a premium.  Your lungs are caught in a bear hug and maybe you’re even a little nauseous.  Your timer or stopwatch could not be moving any slower and if you have to do one more squat you’re pretty sure you might turn into jello and collapse onto the floor. 

I’ll be the first to tell you that working out effectively and consistently is not easy.  In fact, it can be a downright pain in the behind.  Some of you may laugh a little if I tell you that consistently working out is actually good for managing the aches and pains in our bodies, but it’s true! 

Scientists are well aware that, at least in the short term, strenuous exercise temporarily increases our resistance to pain.  Our bodies naturally release natural painkillers in the form of endorphins during tough workouts.  Known as exercise-induced hypoalgesia, a whole host of studies seem to indicate that, at least for a short duration of time, working out greatly increases our tolerance for pain.

Still, what about the long-term effects of exercise on pain management?  After all, we are trying to focus on longevity and wellbeing, not just looking good (though that helps!).  A recent study done at the University of New South Wales and Neuroscience Research Australia indicates that one of the more pronounced effects of consistent exercise is a substantial increase in tolerating pain long-term as well.

While the study was unable to find an exact physiological reason for the increase in pain tolerance, it did discover that working out develops mental fortitude and toughness to better handle pain.  However, Matthew Jones, the lead researcher in the study, believes that the brain is providing some kind of neurological response as well.  This neurological response seems likely given how much recent research has come out as of late regarding exercise and the brain.  

Of course, if you’re injured or feeling a sharp pain anywhere in your body, go see a doctor immediately.  Otherwise, get ready to chase those aches and pains away with me!