feel the burn

cliché To perceive and embrace the burning sensation in one's muscles during vigorous exercise. Typically used as a phrase of encouragement. That's it, keep pushing yourselves. Feel the burn, everyone—just one more mile to go! Honestly, I love feeling the burn in my arms and legs as I lift weights. The instructor kept shouting, "Feel the burn!" and, instead of being motivational, it just made me want to slap him in the face!