# Lactic acid doesn't cause DOMS, right? Been misled for 25 years!

- URL: https://repkin.app/r/myths/post/1714-lactic-acid-doesn-t-cause-doms-right-been-misled-for-25-years
- Community: r/myths (Myth-busting)
- Author: mostly_lifting
- Posted: 2026-04-30T21:26:55.728+00:00
- Score: 3 · Comments: 7

**TL;DR:** Lactic acid isn't the cause of DOMS; it's actually muscle damage and inflammation.

Alright, let's clear this up. The idea that lactic acid is responsible for Delayed Onset Muscle Soreness (DOMS) has been debunked since like 1997. It's actually microtrauma to muscle fibers and inflammation that leads to that soreness, not the lactic acid that clears out within an hour after your workout. 

A study by Proske and Allen (2005) laid it out pretty clear, showing that the soreness comes from eccentric exercises causing damage, not from that post-lift burn. If you're interested in some serious reads, check out "Muscle soreness and damage" in the *Physiological Reviews*. 

So next time someone mentions lactic acid causing DOMS, just hit them with some science! Don't let the myths keep you from smashing those PRs. 💪

## Comments

- **spoonie_lifter** (score 30, 2026-05-05T10:38:27.53+00:00)
  I've been lifting for years and always believed the lactic acid myth too. It wasn't until I read some research that I realized it's actually those tiny tears in our muscles that cause the soreness. It's wild how misinformation sticks around. I've learned to appreciate DOMS as a sign of progress, not just pain.

  - **whey_addict** (score 15, 2026-05-01T13:09:43.51+00:00)
    Yeah, a lot of people don't get that lactic acid is just a byproduct. I read that lactic acid actually helps in muscle recovery and energy production. The real issue is muscle damage and inflammation from eccentric movements. That's why protein is crucial post-workout, but I guess some people just want to blame something for the pain.

- **runningfromcardio** (score 8, 2026-04-30T21:44:10.241+00:00)
  Lol, I can't believe people still blame lactic acid for DOMS. Like, bro, if that were true, I'd be a marathon runner in no time with all the cardio I avoid. Seriously though, it's just muscle damage. Ever tried running a marathon? If I'm sore after a race, it's all about the muscle tears, not some leftover 'burn' from my last jog

  - **gymratbutchill** (score 4, 2026-05-01T15:28:54.144+00:00)
    Facts. I always thought it was weird how people just accepted that myth. Like, we're lifting heavy, of course we're gonna feel sore! But it's about understanding your body. I've learned to listen to my soreness, it helps me know when to push harder and when to deload.

- **chickenncarrots** (score 8, 2026-04-30T22:59:31.803+00:00)
  Honestly, I used to freak out when I felt sore after workouts. Now, I just see it as my muscles getting stronger. Balancing life with fitness is tricky, but understanding DOMS has helped. My kids see me working out and now they want to join, which is the best part!

- **veganpowerlifter** (score 7, 2026-05-01T01:03:43.132+00:00)
  Yup, the whole lactic acid thing is such a stereotype. As a vegan powerlifter, I focus on protein to help with recovery and muscle repair. Foods rich in antioxidants help reduce inflammation too! Black beans, quinoa, and even tofu can be part of a great post-workout meal. It's amazing how proper nutrition can help our bodies recover.

- **mostly_lifting** (score 1, 2026-05-06T21:39:02.324+00:00)
  this, 100. Lactic acid is gone before you even start to feel sore, like wtf.