You have your eyes set on that PR (personal record) today. You can feel it. Today is the day that you’re going to crush it. And when you get to the gym, you can feel the adrenaline hit the moment you step on that gym mat. But wait? Have you completed your warm up? It’s great to be excited before getting into your session, however, while you may have prepared your mind for what’s ahead, your body may not have got the memo. A warm up before a workout session is important. We answer why below.
Why You Should Warm Up Before Workout
A gym warm up will not burn as many calories as the actual session. However, these exercises are crucial to the success of your workout. If you’re thinking of skimping on your pre-workout stretches, read on to find out why they are so important.
They prepare your muscles for the work
Light stretching and movement prior to a workout session is vital for preparing your body for what’s ahead. As you move your body, you’re increasing the temperature of the muscles. The movements also increase the flow of blood to the muscles. This increases the supply of oxygen and nutrients to the muscles. These factors encourage easy relaxing and contracting of the muscles. You will be better able to perform strenuous tasks.
The light movements also help to prepare the most important muscle of all, the heart. Movement helps to increase the heart rate gradually. This ensures that your heart won’t be too strained as you go through the more strenuous movements.
They help reduce the risk of injury
The last thing you want when trying to improve your performance or gains is an injury that will put you out of action for an extended period. Injuries are counterproductive to reaching your goals. It, therefore, makes sense to take some time to perform warm up exercises before the workout.
Light movement and stretches help to improve muscle elasticity. They are able to contract and stretch more readily. They are, therefore, less likely to experience severe tears or strains. This prep session also helps to improve the cooling efficiency of the muscles. You will avoid overheating during the session. You are less likely to hurt yourself accidentally and can continue enjoying the gains as you work towards your goal.
They help you prepare mentally
Exercising goes beyond the physical. Your mental state plays an important role in the success of your session. Your mind is what will push you to complete the session even when the exercises become difficult. Being mentally prepared for the strenuous activities ahead is therefore vital.
Light movements and stretching help to get your mind into the zone. Your mind will be better able to focus on the activities because you gave yourself time to transition from other activities to the workout session.
They help to improve flexibility
Many of us suffer from stiff muscles and joints. This is a product of modern life. Many of us engage in little movement throughout the day. The general rule in flexibility is that if you don’t use it, you’ll lose it. While many people don’t pay too much attention to it, flexibility is vital not just for a better quality of life but also for your workouts. If you want to have good gains, you must be able to move through the full range of motion for the exercise. This takes flexibility.
Performing light stretches and movements prior to working out helps to improve flexibility. The light movements increase blood flow to the muscles. They also help to heat the muscles and improve their elasticity. You will be able to perform exercises more easily and gain more from being able to move through the full range of motion.
Conclusion
Warming up before you get into your workout session is vital for your success and health in general. You can avoid injuries and achieve your goals more efficiently. If you’re confused about how to get your mind and body ready for your gym session, don’t hesitate to contact us, Zenrock Fitness. Our instructors can take you through warm ups for workouts and show you how to prepare for your sessions more effectively.
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