Well I thought I was doing good
 

Then I took a strength training class with focus on arms/shoulders. I thought I had a day before the soreness set in but I can already barely move my arms and am not sure how I'm going to push gurneys around for my shift in a couple hours.

That 60 year old teacher is probably in far better shape than I've ever been.
Lesson learned, try new things, and grab the lowest weights the first time.

It gets better. And at least being sore means you know you worked out hard enough.

I took a "Step and Tone" class for the first time a little over a month ago, and after that first class, I could barely function for THREE days. LOL Classes really push you to keep going and to do your best.

Pop some paracetamol and grit your teeth? I remember doing a yoga set once that had me do 54 lifts into cobra pose (in a row). I thought I was going to die the next couple of days! Could barely drive my car!! :)

Soreness is inevitable when you try new movement, but it's not the be-all-end-all 'proof' that you worked out hard enough. That is to say, there is not a direct correlation between DOMS and strength increases. :)

I'd skip the paracetamol or any NSAIDS unless you really need them - skip the ice too, that just prolongs the agony. Best option, which doesn't sound awesome but really does help, is to do a light workout the day after, using the muscles that are sore. The LIGHT exercise helps keep everything moving, and improves the healing time for any micro-tears that may be contributing to the soreness.

Kudos for trying something new! :hug: