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Here’s How to Warm up Properly Before Your Workout
Once you’ve decided on the type of workout you’re going to do, it’s important to warm up properly before beginning. This can help prevent injuries and ensure that your body is primed for exercise. Here are some tips for warming up before your workout:
1. Start with stretching: Stretching increases blood flow to the muscles and helps them relax so they can better handle physical activity. Make sure you stretch all major muscle groups before starting your workout, including your arms, chest, back, legs, hips, and shoulders. Hold each stretch for 10-15 seconds and repeat two or three times on each side until you feel loose and ready to go.
2. Do dynamic stretches: Dynamic stretches involve movements that will help you prepare for the intensity of your workout. These stretches involve a range of motion and can be done as part of your warm-up routine. For example, if you’re going to do squats, try doing dynamic squats by doing a few shallow squats with an exaggerated hip hinge at the bottom of each squat. This will get your muscles ready to work harder during the actual workout.
3. Focus on breathing: Paying attention to how you are breathing is important when warming up. During stretching and dynamic stretching, focus on taking deep breaths in through your nose and out through your mouth. This helps to regulate blood flow and oxygen levels in the body so that it can better handle physical activity.
4. Incorporate light cardio: After stretching and dynamic stretching, doing some light aerobic exercise can help warm up your body temperature while boosting your heart rate to get ready for the workout ahead. This could include jogging in place, jumping rope, or riding a stationary bike at an easy pace.
5. Finish with specific exercises related to your workout: Lastly, you should do some specific exercises related to what type of physical activity you’ll be doing during your workout. If you plan on running, try jogging slowly for a few minutes before increasing speed when it’s time for the main event. If you’re going to lift weights, do some light weightlifting first to get your muscles used to the motion and prepare them for heavier lifting.
By following these tips, you’ll be able to warm up properly before your workout and get the most out of your exercise routine. Warming up increases blood flow, loosens muscles, and gets the body ready for physical activity so that you can have a safe and effective workout. Remember to always listen to your body and take breaks when needed during your warmup or workout. With proper preparation, you’ll be able to make the most of your workout routine!