When you're pressed for time, or just eager to start your workout, it can be tempting to skip a warm-up. But warming up before you exercise, especially before engaging in strenuous activity, has very real physiological, and often psychological, benefits. Here's what to know to get the most out of your warm-up.
Benefits of a Proper Warm-Up Warming up prepares your heart, lungs, and muscles for the more strenuous phase, the main focus of your workout. By activating the heat-dissipation mechanisms in the body, your body can cool efficiently and help prevent overheating early on, which is especially important during a demanding aerobic activity, such as running or bicycling in a race. Here are the specifics of what happens to your body during a warm-up:
Workouts vary in terms of intensity and length, according to the type of exercise you do. It is recommended warming up for 5 to 10 minutes depending on the intensity of your exercise activity. Comments are closed.
|
AuthorMichael McGovern, Crusader Committee Member, Chairman of Irish Milers Club |