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question

Why is it important to warm up before an exercise?

RealAge
RealAge
answer

Warming up your muscles before your workout helps your muscles adjust to the exercises that you'll be doing, and it's a great way to slowly increase your heart rate. Your warm-up could include taking a brisk walk or bike ride or simply marching or jogging in place, or doing some jumping jacks for one to three minutes.

Jonathan Penney
Jonathan Penney on behalf of National Academy of Sports Medicine
Fitness
answer

Warming up prior to exercise is extremely important to avoid injury.  Having an injury occur is never a pleasant experience and one that you want to avoid.  In addition, you will be able to benefit more from warming up prior to exercise.  Reasoning for more benefit included changes for increase strength and/or increased calories burned.  This occurs due to your body being properly ready for the activity in which you are about to start.

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Important: This content reflects information from various individuals and organizations and may offer alternative or opposing points of view. It should not be used for medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. As always, you should consult with your healthcare provider about your specific health needs.