After a heavy leg workout, the thigh muscles get noticeably thicker due to swelling, and this lasts for at least two days.
Scientific Claim
Muscle swelling (vastus lateralis thickness) increases by approximately 7% at 24 and 48 hours after heavy resistance exercise in strength-trained men, indicating localized inflammation or fluid accumulation following mechanical stress.
Original Statement
“The VL thickness increased from 2.9 ± 0.3 to 3.1 ± 0.3 cm (p < 0.05) and 3.1 ± 0.4 cm (p < 0.05) at 24 and 48 hours after the exercise, respectively.”
Evidence Quality Assessment
Claim Status
appropriately stated
Study Design Support
Design supports claim
Appropriate Language Strength
association
Can only show association/correlation
Assessment Explanation
The claim reports precise measurements and time points from validated imaging methods, avoiding causal interpretations. The design supports descriptive quantitative claims.
Evidence from Studies
Supporting (1)
The study found that after heavy leg workouts, the thigh muscle got noticeably thicker 48 hours later, which means it swelled up — just like the claim says.