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Benefits of Cooling DownBenefits of Cooling Down and Stretching After Exercise
Benefits of Cooling Down  Although
many people skip warming
up and cooling down, the cool down step is probably the most overlooked
piece of an effective exercise routine. The benefits of
cooling down are just as important as warm up period but bring you
different benefits
than the warm up routine.During an aerobic exercise routine you are working your heart within your target heart rate zone. The main purpose of cooling down is to bring your breathing, body temperature and heart rate back to normal slowly. During the cool down routine you are allowing the blood to properly redistribute itself to the heart. This redistribution helps rid the muscles of lactic acid which can build up around the muscles during an aerobic workout. If you stop your aerobic exercise abruptly and do not cool down, the blood can pool up around your muscles in the legs. This can cause insufficient blood flow and oxygen to the brain giving you a light headed and dizzy sensation. Dizziness, nausea and feeling worn out are common symptoms of an improper or no cool down period. Cool Down Routine Similar to the warm up routine, a cool down should last at least 5 minutes and can last up to 15 minutes, depending on how strenuous your exercise routine was. During the cool down, slowly lower your speed and intensity level by running slower, jogging in place, marching in place and eventually walking in place. As you slow down, remember to lower your arms as well to help bring your heart rate back to normal. Towards the end of the cool down your arms should not go above your heart. Just swing them slowly by your side. Stretching after Exercise An effective cool down will also include your stretching exercises. Your muscles will be nice and warm for a deeper and more beneficial stretch to all your major muscles. Do static stretching on all the major muscles and any muscles you used during your exercise or sport. Each stretch should be held for 30 seconds. For your next exercise routine, be sure to get all the benefits of warming up and cooling down by making time for these two critical steps of your workout. If you haven’t already read the article on warming up, then be sure to check out these benefits in addition to the benefits of cooling down. Related Articles Exercise Tips Be sure to get the most from your exercise warm up, routine and cool down with these exercise types. Exercise 4 Weight Loss
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