Every healthcare professional agrees that warming up before working out benefits the body and the mind. When done correctly, it prepares the body for the demands of exercise, helps you perform well, and reduces the risk of injury.
Wonder why? Let’s explore the science behind these benefits.
Why Should You Warm Up?
A few minutes of movement before an official exercise session increases your body temperature and opens blood vessels. This improves blood flow, loosens joints, and allows muscles to contract more easily. Warming up also increases your heart rate at a safe pace, which prepares your cardiovascular system for more intense activity.
In addition to the physical benefits, warming up also engages your brain, helping you mentally prepare for the activity ahead. This increased focus can improve your form and technique during exercise.
What Happens If You Don’t Warm Up?
Your muscles don’t get the opportunity to ease into activity when you skip the warm-up. They remain stiff, which increases the likelihood of muscle strains or tears. Plus, you won’t perform at your best and may experience soreness after the workout.
How Do You Warm Up Properly?
Start with some light stretching, followed by an easy jog or similar light cardio to engage your cardiovascular system but not tire yourself out. Loosening up the areas of your body that will be most engaged in your workout.
Incorporating sport-specific drills into your warm-up will improve performance, because they mimic the movements and muscles you’ll use during your workout or event.
Warming up is more than just a pre-workout ritual. It’s a powerful step toward maximizing your performance and safeguarding your body. So, make warming up a habit, and watch how it transforms the way you move and feel.
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