Have you ever wondered about the implications of exercising when your muscles are still feeling the residual effects of a previous workout? The experience of muscle soreness, often referred to as delayed onset muscle soreness (DOMS), can leave one perplexed. On one hand, there’s the alluring temptation to maintain a consistent workout regimen, which can be vital for physical fitness and overall health. Yet, on the other hand, could pushing through the discomfort lead to detrimental repercussions? Should you heed the signals your body is sending, or is there merit in the age-old adage that “no pain, no gain”? Furthermore, how can one discern whether to embrace rest and recovery or to dive into another strenuous session? Can continuing to exercise enhance endurance, or might it set you back further? The interplay between soreness and exercise recovery is a nuanced topic—what actions should you take when faced with the question, should I workout when sore?