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General

the burn

What does the burn mean?

The searing, burning feeling in a muscle during a demanding high-rep set, often chased as a sign of effective work.

"Feel the burn on the last five reps — that's where growth happens."

Origin

Popular fitness slang linked to high-rep training and aerobics culture.

Frequently asked questions

What causes 'the burn' during a workout?
It's the burning sensation in a muscle during hard, high-rep training, associated with metabolic byproducts building up as the muscle works.
Is feeling the burn good?
It's often chased as a sign of a demanding set, though burn alone isn't a perfect measure of an effective workout.
Where does 'feel the burn' come from?
The phrase became popular through fitness and aerobics culture, tied to high-rep training that produces an intense muscular burn.
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Slang definitions: FreeDict original editorial.