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Edgar Benitez, CSCS, Director

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December 17, 2023

What You May Have Overlooked During the Healing Process

I want to dive deep what you may not know about in terms of healing the body of pain or injury.

Understanding the Power of Intensity

So, why intensity? Well, let's start with the basics. Our bodies are designed to adapt to challenges, and that's where intensity comes in. When you introduce a controlled level of stress to your system, something remarkable happens: your body responds by getting stronger, more resilient, and better equipped to handle future stressors.

The Physiology of Healing

At the physiological level, our bodies are wired to heal and improve through a process called hormesis. When you engage in intense exercises, you're essentially adding that extra weight to your muscles. This prompts your body to repair and reinforce those muscles, making them stronger than before.

The Nervous System's Role

Our nervous system plays a vital role in this process. Intense exercise engages your sympathetic nervous system, responsible for the "fight or flight" response. During intense exercises, your body revs up its engine, increasing blood flow, oxygen delivery, and the release of endorphins, those natural painkillers and mood elevators.

Muscles: The Powerhouses

Now, let's talk muscles. Muscles are incredible. During intense exercises, especially when you maintain proper form, you're not only strengthening the targeted muscles but also fine-tuning your entire musculoskeletal system.

The Consequence of Avoiding Intensity

So, what happens if you avoid intensity and stay in your comfort zone? Well, you'll miss out on the full benefits of intense exercise.

Building Resilience Through Intensity

Intensity is the bridge to confidence. We prescribe exercises tailored to you - exercises that allow you to perform with intensity while still actively working on healing. This process builds trust in your body's capabilities and enhances your overall confidence.

The Role of Intensity in Pain Sensation

One fascinating aspect of intensity is its effect on pain perception. The more intensity we expose ourselves to, the less "loud" sensations of pain will feel. This phenomenon can be attributed to the gate control theory of pain. Imagine your spinal cord as a gatekeeper for pain signals traveling to your brain. When you engage in intense exercise, it's as if you're flooding the gate with other sensations, like the burning in your muscles. This can effectively "close the gate" to pain signals, making discomfort more manageable.

Increasing Intensity Safely

Now, you might be wondering how to increase intensity in your workouts without worrying about injury. That's precisely what we specialize in at IMOC Fitness. We understand that the journey towards intensity must be approached methodically and safely. By working with professionals who prioritize your health and well-being, you can push your limits and achieve remarkable results without unnecessary risks.

The Takeaway

In a nutshell, intensity is not the enemy, but a trusted ally in your journey towards a stronger, pain-free, and resilient you. Embrace it, understand the science behind it, and let it work its magic. The controlled stress you introduce through intensity will lay the foundation for a healthier, happier life.

Remember, it's not just about preventing injuries; it's about becoming the best version of yourself. And that journey begins with intensity.

Stay tuned for more insights and tips from IMOC Fitness as we continue to explore the fascinating world of fitness, health, and healing. Until next time, stay strong, stay intense, and keep moving forward.

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