What Is Muscle Soreness? Understanding ‘Krepatúra’ in English

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The Word We Feel but Can’t Translate: What Is “Krepatúra”?

In Slavic languages, we have a word for that funny post-workout pain: krepatúra. It’s not medical, but everyone knows what it means — that sweet ache in your muscles the day after training. In English, however, there’s no one-word equivalent.

So how do we explain it?

English Equivalents: DOMS, Soreness, and More

1. DOMS — Delayed Onset Muscle Soreness

The official term for what happens 12–48 hours after working out. Used by athletes and trainers.

Example: “It’s DOMS. I trained too hard yesterday.”

2. Muscle soreness

Simple and clear. Works for any kind of post-exercise pain.

Example: “I’ve got muscle soreness after my workout.”

3. Sore muscles / I’m sore

Everyday phrases used by native speakers.

Examples: “My legs are sore.” / “I’m so sore today — that HIIT class killed me.”

What Not to Say

Avoid literal translations like “muscle hangover” or “crippling pain.” They sound strange or overly dramatic in English. Stick with natural expressions.

Speak Like a Native: Real-Life Phrases

Here’s how people actually talk about krepatúra in English:

– I’m sore from yesterday’s training.
– My muscles are killing me.
– I think I’ve got DOMS from that new workout.
– I love this pain. It means I’m getting stronger.

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