There is no denying that exercising is vital to our health, wellness, and fitness. However, warm-ups and cooldowns are just as critical. Dr. Michael Wilson and the team at Kosak Chiropractic of Fairfield, CA, share the importance of making these two parts a priority in your exercise routine.
Importance and Benefits of Warming Up
There are many things that don’t quite work well when they are cold. Some things, like pipes, can burst, for example. Though the body isn’t exactly a pipe, the muscles and soft tissues don’t do so well when cold because the blood isn’t pumping to them enough. They aren’t pliable or flexible, meaning you are more likely to sustain an injury, like a strain.
Dynamic stretches before activity increase your body’s temperature. This increases blood circulation so that more oxygen and blood are delivered throughout the body. The muscles and joints loosen and become more flexible, and you have an increased range of motion.
Warming up also stimulates the nervous system, making you more alert and aware of your movements. Additionally, as the blood is flowing properly, it aids in recovery.
Importance and Benefits of Cooling Down
Cooling down is another important step toward faster recovery and injury prevention. Stretching helps relieve tension that builds up and helps the lactic acid that builds up clear out of the body. Improved circulation also aids in this process. The result is reduced soreness and a much lower chance of sustaining strains, sprains, and pulled muscles.
Additionally, cooling down helps regulate your breathing and gently bring down your heart rate. This takes stress off the heart and lungs and reduces the chances of getting dizzy, lightheaded, or nauseous.
Tips for Effective Warming Up and Cooling Down
If you’re against the idea of adding a long pre- and post-workout routine, the good news is that you don’t have to. Dr. Wilson and the team at Kosak Chiropractic in Fairfield, CA, share a few tips to help you add warm-ups and cooldowns without a major routine.
- Factor in about five minutes before your workout.
- Do a simple mix of stretches and movements that activate the body from head to toe.
- Spend about five minutes after your workout cooling down.
- Keep it simple with a short walk and some stretches during your cool down.
- If you can dedicate a few more minutes, do so, but it doesn’t have to be a 30-minute or hour-long process.
Let Dr. Wilson and the team at Kosak Chiropractic in Fairfield, CA, provide personalized tips for warm-ups and cooldowns and keep your body moving and functioning injury-free. Call (707) 426-1111 to schedule an appointment today.