Everyone who has attempted to exercise has experienced running out of breath too soon, cramps, and side pains. This may lead to one quickly concluding that they are not cut out for physical activity or that they have a limited capacity to do so. This, however, is seldom the case. Often individuals begin their exercise routine without an adequate “warm up” period. The impact of doing so is exacerbated when exercise is the first thing one does in the morning. After sleeping for a long period of time the muscles are still “asleep” and it is best that they are gradually eased into motion.

It is important to note that during exercise it is not only the skeletal muscles at the active site which are at work. For example, when one is running it is not only the muscles in the legs and arms involved. The moment one starts running the heart is begins to pump faster, the cardiac muscles begin to contract and relax at a faster pace; one’s breathing pace increases and the diaphragm muscles contract and relax at a faster pace; and the smooth muscles of the blood vessels are activated to aide in the efficient distribution of blood to the body.

When you warm up before engaging in top peak physical activity, you perform better for longer, it prevents injuries, gives time for the temperature of the muscles and the blood to rise gradually, and it gives your mind time to mentally prepare for the task at hand. So next time before you head out for that run, bicycle ride, or power walking session, give your body what it needs – take some time to warm up, you won’t regret it.