The benefits of cool-down exercise are numerous. The exercises and stretches done at the end of your workout help lower injury risks, promote blood flow, and reduce stress to the muscles and your heart. They also help ease your body out of strenuous activity so that your heart rate, body heat, and blood pressure revert to normal levels.
Here are a few cool-down exercises to get you started:
Light Jogging or Walking
Light jogging and brisk walking are some of the most convenient ways to cool down after strenuous activity. To get the best outcomes, aim to do 3 to 5 minutes of light jogging followed by 3 to 5 minutes of brisk or leisurely walking after your training.
Seated Hamstring Stretch
This cool-down exercise is also one of the easiest and effective exercises to cool you down fast and prevent back pain issues. It involves sitting on a mat and placing one leg straight out. Bend your other leg at the knee joint and place its sole facing your opposite inner thigh. Afterward, extend both your hands and reach forward. Hold on for about 30 seconds before switching legs.
Chest Stretch
Another popular cool-down exercise to try involves stretching your chest. Place your fingers behind your back, then straighten out your arms and face the ceiling. This exercise precisely stretches your chest muscles.
Jumping Jacks
If you are looking for lighter exercises that work effectively to cool you down, consider jumping jack. One great advantage with this option is that the motion of jumping, spreading, and closing your legs works nearly your entire lower body.
Swimming
Taking a quick dip into the pool can be a great way to cool down after a strenuous exercise. Just like jumping jacks, swimming also works a significant number of your muscles. However, aim at varying your swimming intensity to get the best outcome.
Train With the Professionals at Horsham Athletic Club
It is advisable to dedicate at least 10 minutes of your workout to cool down before carrying on with your usual activities. At Horsham Athletic Club, we recommend that you do these exercises at a slower speed and lower intensity than your regular workout.
If you need help with any training, turn to our team! Our personal trainers are experts at designing personalized workouts that meet your goals and needs. As certified and highly trained professionals, all of their advice aligns with the American College of Sports Medicine’s safety guidelines. To learn more about our club amenities, reach out today!