Yes, if an individual is experiencing mild soreness and can move comfortably, exercising is safe. In cases where the individual is experiencing debilitating soreness, extreme weakness, and fatigue, it is best to wait until the symptoms subside, as exercising in this state can increase the risk of injury.[1] There is also some evidence that exercise may alleviate DOMS pain, but this relief is typically short-lived, and the discomfort will return after the exercise is finished.[2]
Is it safe to exercise while experiencing DOMS?
Written by:
Fact-checked
by:
•Last Updated: May 16, 2025
It is safe to exercise with mild soreness from delayed onset muscle soreness (DOMS) if movement is comfortable, but avoid exercising with severe soreness, weakness, or fatigue to reduce the risk of injury. Although exercise may provide temporary relief from DOMS pain, the discomfort usually returns afterward.