The Importance of a General Warm-Up
The purpose of the warm-up is to prepare the body for physical activity. A
warm-up increases range of motion, puts the body in a state of readiness for
vigorous activity and enhances the performance of movement required for exercise.
A thorough warm-up reduces the risk of injury, especially when performed prior
to repetitive and/or resistance-based exercise.
Two types of warm-ups are typically used: general and specific. The purpose
of a general, circulatory warm-up is to
- Increase body and muscle temperature and blood flow to working muscles
- Facilitate the production of energy for exercise
- Increase oxygen delivery to muscles
- Improve the travel speed of nerve impulses
- Improve the speed and efficiency of muscle contractions
- Gradually increase the load on the heart, which helps prevent abnormal cardiac
rhythm
A general warm-up results in mild elevation of the heart rate and ventilation
and perhaps light perspiration, but shouldnt be fatiguing. As a rule, the general
warm-up should consist of moderately intense exercise lasting five to 10 minutes.
However, the more intense the planned workout, the longer the general warm-up
should be. Many people believe that warmed muscles, tendons and connective tissue
are more elastic and less likely to be injured during physical activity, but
very little scientific evidence supports that belief.
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This information and other information on this site is intended for general reference purposes only and is not intended to address specific medical or health conditions. This information is not a substitute for professional medical advice or a medical exam. Prior to taking nutritional supplements or participating in any diet or exercise program or activity, you should seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health professional. No health information on this site should be used to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any medical condition.
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