[nickilaughs]

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.

[IanG]

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

[hellcatjill]

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.

[Raisin5Cookies]

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!!

[Defining]

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!