Tips » Weight Training
What if I don't get sore after I workout?
I seldom get sore after the first workout. Soreness is not an indication of how hard you pushed it. Soreness is related to a number of factors, none of which directly correlate to muscle growth. The predominant theory of DOMS - delayed onset muscle soreness - is simply that the training creates mild inflammation when microtrauma to the muscle tissue leaks into the surrounding area and inflames nerve endings. If you stretch thoroughly, take supplements like glutamine, have a massage, or just genetically aren't succeptible, it won't happen.
This is part of the "I feel it" syndrome - people who operate on how they feel in a gym or after taking a supplement, instead of being objective about it.
The bottom line - if you are progressing, you are doing fine. It doesn't matter if you are sore or not. You might be able to lift more weight every workout and never get sore, while someone else might be stuck in a plateau despite getting sore after every workout.
Push it - give it your all ... but if you are in doubt, have someone experienced train you. It is great and noble to think you can just focus mentally and push as hard as you can, but the truth is that more often than not, intensity is something that has to be taught and you simply don't realize your limits until you have someone else push you beyond the subconscious boundaries you've set for yourself.