Why it’s Important to Cool-Down After a Workout

By
Ava K
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Exercising is important, but did you know the other two basics that are just as significant? Warm-ups and cool-downs are the steps of successful exercising that so many people forget about. Your body needs the best treatment and without this duo, you should not go through any physical activity. These are the reasons why cooling down is crucial.

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Self Myofascial Release (foam rolling) . I'm sure you've seen these before, or even have one, but do you really know how to use it? 🤔 . There are two main ways to use a foam roller. The first is for general muscle soreness, and the second is to target muscle knots. . For general muscle soreness, roll an entire muscle or muscle group back and forth over the foam roller for about 30 seconds. This helps improve tissue recovery, decreases muscle soreness, and relax tight muscles after a workout. . For a more targeted approach and getting out muscle knots, roll the muscle or muscle group *slowly* across the roller until you find a sensitive spot. Hold there for at least 30 seconds, trying to relax the muscle as best you can mentally. The pressure of your body weight can force the muscles in the knot to release. It might be uncomfortable bc you're applying pressure to a tight muscle (think of deep tissue massage) but it's going to feel amazing once that muscle releases 🙌🙌 This is best both before a workout if you have a particularly tight muscle, and after a workout. . As far as types, there are the smooth foam rollers (like the one Im using here), then ones with indentations or raised bumps. The latter two offer a more intense pressure, and some people find they're more painful than the smooth ones, but I find they're better for getting out muscle knots. It really comes down to what you can tolerate, but all three types are useful. . Do you incorporate foam rolling in your fitness routine? . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

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No More Sore Muscles

If you are planning on exercising again the following day, you don’t want to struggle with sore muscles. To avoid that you should definitely warm-up and cool down. The light stretches that you’ll do will help relax your muscles.

Prevents Injuries

If you don’t practice cooling down after a workout, chances are there will be substances such as lactic acid in your muscles that cause cramps and pain. Eventually, that can also lead to injuries. Don’t forget to do your stretches at the end of a training session and you should be fine.

Slow Down Heart Rate

Cooling down will slow down your breathing and heart rate as well. Thanks to the stretches and poses it will all happen gradually, which is best for your body. If not, you can experience dizziness.