The phrase warm-up actually indicates warming up the body. A good warm-up helps to make the muscles flexible and increases the body temperature slightly in order to enlarge the blood vessels so that there is better circulation of blood throughout the body.
This improved circulation helps to reach oxygen to the muscles and eliminate the waste products of cellular activity from the body. One advantage of warming up muscles is that they become loose and supple. This actually lowers the risk of stiffness , muscle tear and also prepares the body for a high intensity work-out.
A good warm up increases the overall levels of metabolism, heart rate and respiration. It also helps carry vital nutrients to the muscles and keep them lubricated. This actually helps prevent injury caused due to stretched tendons and tears.
Irrespective of the sport you play, a well functioning cardiovascular system and flexible muscles and joints are vital in order to maximize performance and lower the risks of injury.
A good low-intensity work-out consists of around ten minutes of static and dynamic stretching before beginning with the exercise routine.
Try and tailor your warm-up to include non stretching movements as well depending on the sport that you are playing. For example, if you will be jogging 5 miles, you can warm up first with a brisk walk or a few gentle laps. If instead you play tennis or golf, you can warm up by practicing a few gentle swings with the golf club or tennis racket.
Gradually increase the speed and intensity of movement as you progress during your work-out so that the body and mind are kept active and ready for the exercise routine that is to follow.
Increasing the intensity of the warm-up actually helps to increase the cardiovascular and lung activity. It also keeps the mind more alert and active.
Do not over exert yourself during the warm-up. The idea of a warm-up is to prepare the body for more vigorous activity that is to follow so don't overdo the warm-up or perform it very quickly.
The end result after a good warm-up is that the body will feel ready and active to exercise at peak levels of performance and also with minimal risk of injury.
