Relieve post workout muscle soreness by pampering yourself with these low cost methods, you've earned it.

1. Deep Tissue Massager or Foam Roller

Research indicates that a massage post exercise reduces inflammation. Specifically, scientists found that massaged muscles produced less cytokines which are proteins that cause swelling and soreness. A deep tissue massager or foam roller are both inexpensive ways to mimic the results of an expensive masseuse.

2. Epsom Salt & Aromatherapy Oils

Epsom salt baths have a long standing reputation of relieving muscle soreness. In water, Epsom salt breaks down into magnesium sulfate. It is believed that this element absorbs into the skin and results in reduced swelling and muscle soreness relief. Add aromatherapy oil to your bath and smell tea tree, peppermint, or eucalyptus for greater relaxation.

3. Body Scrub

Body scrubs increase blood circulation to your muscles as they're rubbed on your body. This provides similar but lessened affects of a deep tissue massage. They will also soften your skin and reduce symptoms of dermatitis and eczema over time.

Facts About Muscle Soreness

Delayed onset muscle soreness or DOMS is the occurrence of muscle soreness that peaks 24-48 hours after physical exertion. It effects everyone regardless of fitness level, and typically wears off after 72 hrs. Anytime you train your muscles differently, whether by increasing intensity or volume, expect to feel muscle soreness.

Although muscle soreness is a temporary setback, it's an indication of something wonderful happening inside your body. When you train your body to the point of muscle exertion, your body perceives this as an activity that it should protect itself from going forward. Muscle soreness is simply the side effect of your body adapting for the next time you train like that again. In essence, this is how you become stronger and more athletic.

If you don't feel DOMS after 24-48hrs, don't panic, this is no indication that you did not have a good and beneficial workout. Remember that DOMS is only the result of training your muscles differently, over-exertion, and your body reacting. Switching up your training method is a good idea for progression, but doesn't need to occur often. Also you shouldn't seek to over-exert your muscles every workout. You will find yourself fatigued to the point where you're unable to workout.

So do you pamper yourself post workout? If so, let me know in the comments what you do to relax!