Delayed onset muscle soreness commonly occurs after which type of activity?

Delayed onset muscle soreness (DOMS) commonly occurs after high-intensity workouts due to the nature of the physical exertion involved. When engaging in high-intensity activities, especially if they are performed after a period of inactivity or if they involve eccentric muscle contractions, microscopic tears can occur in the muscle fibers. This damage triggers an inflammatory response, which leads to the sensation of soreness and stiffness experienced one to two days post-exercise.

High-intensity workouts challenge the muscles to an extent that they may not be accustomed to, resulting in a greater likelihood of experiencing DOMS. These workouts often include activities like heavy weightlifting, sprinting, or explosive movements that push muscles beyond their typical limits. The recovery process, including muscle repair, is what leads to the soreness felt afterward.

In contrast, light stretching typically does not impose significant stress on the muscles and therefore does not lead to soreness. Prolonged rest decreases muscle activity and doesn’t create the microdamage associated with muscle soreness. Similarly, isometric exercises, which involve muscle contractions without movement, are less likely to produce the eccentric damage that is a primary factor in DOMS. Thus, high-intensity workouts are most closely linked to the onset of delayed onset muscle soreness.