Does abdominal pain during abs training mean it's effective?
May 26, 2023
Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Lin Yunfei
Introduction
In general, abdominal pain during abdominal muscle training may indicate effectiveness, but it could also be caused by factors such as muscle strain or gastritis, which are not signs of progress. In summary, abdominal pain during ab exercises might suggest effectiveness, but it might not. Individuals experiencing prolonged pain should seek medical attention promptly and, under a doctor's guidance, choose an appropriate treatment plan.
Generally, abdominal pain during abdominal muscle training may indicate that the exercise is effective, but it could also be caused by factors such as muscle strain or gastritis, in which case the pain does not signify effectiveness. The specific analysis is as follows:
1. Yes, it may indicate effectiveness
During abdominal workouts, the abdomen contains many muscles—including the rectus abdominis, external oblique, internal oblique, and transverse abdominis—that repeatedly contract and stretch during exercise. This process can stimulate the muscles, potentially leading to localized congestion and resulting in soreness. This type of pain usually indicates that the training is producing an effect. Typically, this discomfort lasts for 2–3 days and resolves on its own over time.
2. No, it may not indicate effectiveness
If abdominal pain occurs after training and is particularly intense or persists for a prolonged period, it may be related to conditions such as muscle strain or gastritis. Improper exertion during exercise may lead to muscle strain and subsequent abdominal pain. In such cases, patients are advised to first try relieving symptoms with heat therapy and massage. For individuals with gastritis, medications such as domperidone tablets, mosapride citrate tablets, or tegaserod maleate dispersible tablets may be used under a doctor's guidance.
In summary, abdominal pain during abdominal muscle training may or may not indicate effective exercise. If pain persists for an extended period, individuals should seek medical attention promptly and, under medical supervision, choose an appropriate treatment plan.
