If you’ve ever been mid-lunge at [solidcore] – hands gripping the handlebars, muscles trembling uncontrollably – then you’ve experienced the shakes. 

Good news: those shakes are not only normal, they mean you’re doing something right. You’re pushing your body to new limits – and getting stronger in the process.

In this article, we’ll break down what causes shaky muscles during [solidcore] workouts, why the shakes are actually a good thing, and how to maximize their benefits on your journey to becoming the strongest version of yourself.

 

What are the “shakes” during a [solidcore] class?

During a [solidcore] class, you’re moving through slow, controlled, resistance-based exercises that take your muscles to the point of failure. That’s the magic of the method.

The “shakes” refer to that trembling sensation your muscles experience when they’re pushed to fatigue under sustained tension. Shaky muscles aren’t a sign of weakness, or a warning that your form is poor. 

Muscle shaking during [solidcore] is your body’s natural response to intense exertion. The shakes are your nervous system working overtime to recruit more muscle fibers in an effort to maintain control and stability, as your muscles approach their limits.

In short:

  • The shakes mean your muscles are firing on all cylinders.
  • You’re pushing past the strength you currently have to create the strength you want.

 

Why do muscles shake during strength training?

There are a few reasons why your muscles tremble during tough workouts like [solidcore]:

1. Muscle Fatigue

You’re probably familiar with your [solidcore] coach telling you to slow things down, and there’s a reason for that. As you move slowly through high-resistance exercises, your body starts recruiting additional, smaller muscles to help out. The coordination between the primary muscles working in an exercise and these new smaller muscles isn’t perfect – resulting in that shaky, unsteady feeling.

2. Neuromuscular Overload

[solidcore] classes challenge both your muscles and your nervous system. Your brain is firing rapid signals to your muscles, telling them to contract, stabilize, and lengthen. But as your muscles get tired, those signals get slightly less smooth, leading to visible shaking.

3. Increased Demand on Stabilizer Muscles

[solidcore] isn’t just about major muscle groups like your glutes or core – it also targets the stabilizer muscles that keep you balanced and support your joints and spine. These muscles don’t get worked as intensely in traditional workouts, so when they’re asked to perform under a challenging load and deep fatigue, they shake.

4. Using Your Slow-Twitch Muscle Fibers

Because [solidcore]’s method emphasizes slow, controlled movements, it relies heavily on your slow-twitch muscle fibers – the ones that contribute to muscle definition. Fatiguing these muscles feels different than quick, explosive exercises – a key sign you’re building muscular endurance.

 

Workout Shaking Causes & Benefits

If you’re feeling self-conscious about shaking during your [solidcore] class, don’t be. It’s a sign of real progress. Here’s why:

1. You’re Reaching True Muscle Failure

Building strength and muscle definition requires pushing your muscles to the point of failure. The shakes are a sign you can’t miss, that you’re breaking down your muscle fibers so they can rebuild stronger.

2. You’re Maximizing Time Under Tension

Time under tension is one of the biggest drivers of muscle growth and improved endurance. Shaking during [solidcore] means you’re staying in the “tough zone” long enough to trigger results.

3. You’re Building Mind-Muscle Connection

It takes focus and control to maintain good form even while shaking. Each time you experience the shakes but stay engaged and push through, you’re strengthening the pathways between your brain and your muscles.

4. You’re Unlocking New Levels of Strength

Every time you work through the shakes, you’re teaching your body what is possible. Over time, this leads to noticeable improvements in strength, stability, endurance, and overall athletic performance – not just at [solidcore], but in everyday life.

 

How to embrace (and benefit from) the shakes at [solidcore]

When you start shaking, your body’s instinct might be to rush through the movement, or stop to rest. But rather than fighting the shakes, learn to lean into them (and yes, we know it’s really hard to convince yourself to do!).

Double down on slow, precise form. Engage your core, and focus on your breath. Don’t hold your breath – holding your breath can make the shakes worse. Instead, try to breathe steadily, exhaling during the hardest part of the exercise. Oxygen is fuel for your muscles.

Remember: trust the process. The shakes are a clear sign you’re doing the hard, transformative work that leads to change. Shaky muscles are your body’s way of letting you know that you’re stepping into a stronger, more powerful version of yourself.

 

How to recover and rebuilding after strength training

Pushing to failure is important – but so is recovery. Make sure you’re giving your muscles time to rebuild stronger by getting enough water, protein, and rest. The rebuild phase is where the magic happens.

A lot of people think resting means you’re being lazy. But it’s actually an active part of your training. When you shake during a [solidcore] class, you’re creating microscopic tears in the muscle fibers. But it’s only during recovery (especially the 24 to 48 hours after your workout) that your body repairs those fibers, making them stronger. Skipping rest can limit your progress and even increase your risk of injury.

Sleep and hydration are just as crucial for muscle recovery. When you sleep, your body produces growth hormone, which aids in tissue repair and muscle development. And water helps flush out toxins and supports muscle health so you can come back stronger to your next workout. Also aim to eat clean, protein-rich meals throughout the day. A good daily protein target for active individuals is about 0.7–1 gram per pound of lean body mass or current weight, depending on your training intensity and goals.

Remember: listen to your body. Some days, your muscles might still be shaking hours after class. On those days, consider active recovery like a walk or a light stretch. This will help you prevent burnout. 

Transformation doesn’t happen in a straight line. The time you spend recovering is part of the work. So the next time you feel the shakes, celebrate them. Your body will reward you with serious results that go far beyond the studio.

Ready to feel the [solidcore] shakes? Book your class today!