Have you ever finished an intense workout, only to find bruises on your body that you never expected? Minor bruising after strenuous physical activity is normal but it may also be a sign of underlying health conditions that should not be ignored.This condition of bruising happens because the blood vessels are damaged under the skin, and that is why it causes bruising and pain. Although this may not cause any concern on one or two occasions, recurrent or unidentified bruises may be the warning sign that your body sends to you to alert you of something being wrong.In this article, we will discuss why bruising occurs, medical conditions that could be causing it, and when to see a doctor.How Do Bruises Form on Your Body?Bruises are formed when small blood vessels break and leak blood under the skin, which causes a red, purple or black-and-blue mark. Most bruises are subcutaneous, meaning they occur just beneath the skin, but some can occur within muscles or bones, according to the American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons.The severity of a bruise depends on the force of impact and the condition of the blood vessels. Mild bruises may fade in a few days, but more severe bruises can take weeks to heal.Common Causes of Exercise-Related Bruising1. Prolonged or Intense ExerciseIf your workout involves prolonged strain—such as long-distance running, high-intensity weightlifting, or endurance training—your muscles and blood vessels can become weakened, making bruising more likely.2. Accidental ImpactMany get bumped into gym equipment, weight racks or even barbells while exercising. The constant pressing weight from doing exercises like deadlifts or squats may even cause bruises at times, normally around the legs and arms.3. Aging and Skin ThinningAs we age, our skin and blood vessels naturally become thinner and more fragile. According to the Mayo Clinic, aging reduces collagen production, making bruising more common especially in individuals over 50.4. Medications That Affect Blood ClottingSome medications can cause your skin to bruise easily, such as blood thinners like aspirin, anticoagulants and even some over-the-counter pain relievers. If you notice frequent bruising, consult your doctor about possible medication side effects.5. Underlying Health ConditionsPersistent bruising could be a sign of an underlying medical condition. Vitamin deficiencies, blood disorders and even kidney or liver diseases can affect the body's ability to heal and clot properly.5 Medical Conditions That May Be Causing Your Workout Bruises1. Vitamin C Deficiency (Scurvy)Vitamin C plays a crucial role in collagen production, which helps strengthen blood vessels. A deficiency can lead to weakened capillaries, causing frequent bruising, slow wound healing and fatigue.2. HemophiliaHemophilia is a genetic disorder that impairs blood clotting, leading to excessive bleeding and easy bruising even with minor impacts. If you have a family history of hemophilia and experience frequent bruising, it’s best to seek medical advice.3. LeukemiaLeukemia, a type of blood cancer, can cause unexplained bruising due to a low platelet count. If bruising is accompanied by fatigue, fever or unexplained weight loss, consult a doctor immediately.4. Vitamin K DeficiencyVitamin K is a vital nutrient for the proper clotting of blood. A deficiency leads to easy bruising and excessive bleeding. Low levels of vitamin K can occur in patients with liver disease, malabsorption disorders or those on certain medications.5. Kidney or Liver DiseaseBoth kidney and liver diseases can affect blood clotting mechanisms, increasing the risk of bruising. Chronic conditions such as cirrhosis or renal failure may interfere with clotting factor production, making bruising more common.How to Reduce and Prevent Bruising after ExerciseIf you’re experiencing frequent bruising from workouts, consider the following strategies to prevent and minimize it:1. Warm Up and Cool DownWarming up before exercise increases blood circulation, gradually preparing muscles and blood vessels for physical exertion. Cooling down after a workout helps prevent sudden changes in blood flow, reducing the risk of bruising.2. Maintain a Balanced DietMaintaining a diet rich in essential vitamins and minerals, especially vitamin C, vitamin K and iron, keeps your blood vessels healthy and resilient. Leafy greens, citrus fruits and lean proteins are some of the best choices for promoting vascular health.3. HydrateDehydration is said to cause muscle fatigue and cramping, and this leads to chances of injury and bruising. Ensure you drink enough water before, during and after working out.4. Use appropriate workout gearUsing protective clothing such as compression leggings or padded gloves, can absorb impact and reduce the likelihood of bruising. If your workout involves heavy lifting, consider adding knee sleeves or shin guards to your protection.5. Train with a TrainerA certified personal trainer can help assess your form and technique to ensure that you're not putting unnecessary strain on your body. Poor posture and incorrect lifting techniques can contribute to excessive pressure on muscles and blood vessels, increasing the risk of bruising.When to Seek Medical AttentionWhile occasional bruising is normal, you should see a doctor if you experience:Large or unexplained bruises that appear frequentlyBruising that doesn’t heal within two weeksBruises accompanied by excessive bleeding, nosebleeds or gum bleedingFatigue, dizziness, or other unusual symptoms alongside bruising