Here's a simple test our exercise physiologists teach clients:
The 24-Hour Rule: If discomfort improves with gentle movement and feels better the day after exercise, it's likely beneficial soreness. If it worsens or doesn't respond to gentle movement, it needs professional attention.
The Function Test: Can you still perform your daily activities without modification? Soreness shouldn't stop you from living your life – pain might.

When you're managing conditions like arthritis, diabetes, or heart disease, your body's signals can be more complex. What feels like "normal" soreness to someone else might indicate inflammation or a flare-up for you.

That's where having an exercise physiologist in your corner makes all the difference. We're trained to help you navigate these grey areas safely, especially when you're working around existing conditions.

Here's the reality: sometimes distinguishing between exercise soreness and injury pain isn't crystal clear. You might be dealing with both – perhaps recovering from an old injury while building strength, or managing a chronic condition that creates background discomfort.

The key is this: you still need to keep moving toward recovery.
Movement is medicine, but it needs to be the right dose. This is where having professional support and guidance becomes invaluable. Our exercise physiologists, yoga instructor, and remedial massage therapists work together to help you navigate these complex situations safely.

When there's uncertainty about pain levels, we typically recommend our clients follow this protocol:
Use the Pain Scale (VAS 1-10): Rate your discomfort during and after exercise

• 1-3: Minimal discomfort – you're likely safe to continue
• 4-6: Moderate discomfort – proceed with caution, monitor closely
• 7-10: Significant pain – time to modify or stop

Our general guideline: don't exceed 6-7 out of 10 during exercise. This is a guide only – your individual situation may require different parameters.
Start with low intensity and short duration, then build gradually. Your body will tell you if you're on the right track.

Remember: some discomfort during your fitness journey is normal and even beneficial. But you should never have to navigate these decisions alone.
Quick tips for this week:

• Keep a simple pain/soreness diary – rate your discomfort 1-10 and note how it changes
• Focus on consistency over intensity
• When in doubt, seek professional guidance rather than avoiding movement altogether

The beauty of our integrated approach is that you don't have to figure this out alone. Whether you need:

• Exercise physiology guidance to safely progress your strength and conditioning
• Yoga classes (Mondays & Thursdays 4:30pm) for gentle, mindful movement that builds balance and reduces stress
• Remedial massage to address muscle tension and support recovery

...our trained staff work as a team to help you move confidently through the grey areas of pain and soreness.