You’re in the final hold of a killer Barre sequence and your instructor is counting down like she hopes she never gets to 1. Everything burns, you are desperately holding on to your good posture and then the shaking starts.

Your legs are quivering – you just know you can’t hold it – she’s still counting – the shaking is getting worse – you’re going to die and then, finally, done. You sigh and stretch, and then you smile because you did it.

Why Do I Shake?

Your muscles are made up of groups of motor units. These motor units are a collection of muscle cells directed by a nerve.  Motor units work together to move your muscles. When you place your muscles under intense strain, they begin to fatigue and new motor units have to be called up to replace them. The quick shifting of motor units is what causes the shaking you feel. 

Good News!

The shake means that you are building strength! By working your muscles to fatigue, you are encouraging new muscle growth. The shake means that you are putting in the work and consistency will pay off. When you begin to shake during your workout:

• take slow breaths (your muscles need oxygen)
• don’t be afraid to pause if needed (but jump right back in)
• make sure to give your muscles time to recover after your workout!

Keep showing up, keep working at it, and embrace the shake!!