Importance of a Cool Down

The cool down occurs at that end of exercise. Often in exercise classes the cool down will be incorporated into the class, but when we work out on our own, we are responsible for incorporating our own cool down. Because it happens at the end, sometimes we may be in a rush and inclined to skip the cool down, or so tired we just want to lie down and not get up for a while. However, the cool down is a really important part of our workout, and something that we should try not to skip.

Cool downs often involve lower intensity movement and dynamic and static stretching. This helps to bring the body back to a steady state, stretch out any muscles that had been contracted or tightened during the workout, and provide a closure to the workout, both physically and mentally.

Cool down’s help you feel better. While working out, the heart pumps at an accelerated rate. If exercise suddenly stops, blood could pool in the lower extremities, and the slower rate of muscle contraction “reduces the rate at which oxygenated blood moves back to the heart and brain”. This could cause dizziness or light headedness. A cool down helps to avoid the potentially to feel ill, and helps to return the body to a steady state including slowing your breathing back down.

Taking the time to cool down also increases your flexibility. The warm muscles are perfectly primed to stretch. It can help to elongate the muscles that have been contracted during a workout. It also helps to improve range of motion in the joints, to prevent injury as you go about the rest of the day and can be carried over into your next workout. Stretching can also feel good after an intense bout of exercise.

Stretch therapy can provide the perfect stretching pair to a cool down. After an intense run or ride or exercise activity, booking an assisted stretching appointment can help to incorporate the stretch element of a cool down. Stretch therapists are highly trained, and will help to ensure you are stretching safely, as well as targeting areas that are tight and may be causing pain.

Source:

https://www.acefitness.org/education-and-resources/lifestyle/blog/6926/three-reasons-to-stay-for-the-cool-down/

Photo: Unsplahs user Andrew “Donovan” Valdivia @donovan_valdivia