WARM-UP AND COOL DOWN...

Why should I warm-up and cool down? Here's why...

THE WARM-UP
No matter how anxious you are to get started with your workout, remember that warming-up is a necessity. Not doing so could do more harm than good. A warm-up isn't just a little bit of stretching before your workout. It includes aerobic activity that uses the muscles and joints you will be using during exercise. It prepares them for more intense activity. It improves the elasticity of the muscles, improves circulation and gives better muscle control. It's also chance to raise your core body temperature.Warm-up religiously before every workout. It'll help prevent injury.

THE COOL DOWN
Cooling down after exercise is even more important in reducing the risk of injury as warming-up is. Cooling down helps to initiate recovery and return the body to it's before workout state. Cooling down also helps the heart rate and breathing return back to normal. During your workout, your body produces waste products that build up inside the body. When done after exercise, cooling down helps flush out those toxins. Cooling down consists of gentle exercise, stretching and refueling. They work together to replenish the body after exercise. It should last about 5 minutes or so. Not cooling down properly can cause dizziness, nausea and a spaced out feeling after your workout.