heaven on earth

Okay, I planned to head to the gym today but the DOMS (delayed onset muscle soreness) that has been affecting my L and R triceps (brachii muscles) thought otherwise (thanks to the lat pull-down machine). It aches whenever I flex my arms and therefore, aches when I virtually attempt to do anything (including running).

Hence, rest day today.

Anyway, many people attribute DOMS to the buildup of lactic acid in the muscles after intense muscle activity. BUT, after scrolling through medical journals on related topics, I learnt that LACTATE (OR LACTIC ACID) IS NOT THE CAUSE FOR DOMS!

In summary, here's why:

1. Lactate cannot release any protons, hence does not lead to acidosis. Yes, A Levels chemistry.

2. Lactic acid CANNOT BE form in human muscles under normal circumstances.

As for muscle acidosis (different from DOMS), this arises from a totally different chemical reaction. When ATP is hydrolysed (ATP = Adenosine triphosphate, okay, in simple terms, the "battery" of the cells in your body), H+ is released and therefore reduces pH in our muscles. When a large number of ATP is hydrolysed at an increased rate, (resulting in the rapid production of H+ ions) the body's inbuilt pH balance system (or "buffer" - remember buffer solution?) fails and causes the phenomenon known as acidosis.

This results in intense muscular pain sometimes experienced after strenouous exercise.

As for delayed onset muscule soreness, scientists have yet to come up with an indisputable explanation!