Do Leg Workouts Increase Size and Strength or Just Cause Soreness?

Do Leg Workouts Make Your Legs Bigger?

Yes, but it depends on two key things:

1、Your Training Style: If you’re lifting heavy weights and doing exercises like squats, deadlifts, or lunges, your muscles will likely grow (aka hypertrophy). This is especially true if you’re eating enough protein and calories to support muscle growth.

2、Your Genetics: Some people naturally build muscle faster than others. If you’re leaner or have a faster metabolism, it might take more effort to see noticeable size increases.

Do Leg Workouts Make Your Legs Stronger?

Absolutely. Strength training—whether with weights, resistance bands, or bodyweight—improves muscle endurance, power, and overall strength. Even if your legs don’t look huge, they’re getting functionally stronger over time.

What About That Soreness?

Post-workout soreness (DOMS—delayed onset muscle soreness) is just your muscles recovering from the stress of exercise. It’s not an indicator of growth or strength, but it does mean you pushed your muscles hard enough to spark change. The soreness fades as your body adapts, so don’t rely on it as a measure of progress.

The Bottom Line:

Leg workouts can make your legs bigger and stronger, but it’s not just about soreness. Stick to a consistent routine, fuel your body right, and track your progress over time. And hey, if you’re not sure where to start, mixing up heavy lifting with bodyweight exercises is a game-changer.

Drop your go-to leg exercise in the comments—let’s see who’s repping squats and who’s all about lunges!