Ease into new workout regimens to prevent microtraumas

You may not feet them, but microtraumas are almost unavoidable for people who spend a lot of time at the gym. They are tiny injuries to the muscle that affect fibers deep inside and can cause slight pain for a couple of weeks, but leave behind lasting effects.

The Kansas City Star reports that microtraumas occur when muscles are used too much. After they "heal," they turn into gristle-like tissue that hinders flexibility and causes instability as well as pain.

The news provider states that athletes can prevent microtraumas by easing into a new workout regimen, rather than jumping into a new sport when the seasons change.

Fitness-Wellness-Guide.com says that weight lifting sessions should be limited to one hour in order to prevent microtraumas. Additionally, the site reports that bodybuilders should rest for no more than 90 seconds between sets, and that each set should consist of six to 15 repetitions.

The wellness website also recommends progressive training in order to prevent injury, and rests in between workouts to allow the body to heal.