Off to a Good Start

by: Arlyn B. Amboy

Before we see our favorite players strutt their stuff in the court, they have some things that they do. Most people tend to take this for granted when in fact it is one of the most important things in sports or some activities... Warm-up exercises. It can be as simple as a brisk walk or a slow jog which should be completed prior to stretching and more strenuous exercise. Its objective is to raise total body temperature and muscle temperature to prepare the entire body for vigorous activity.

The two main purpose of this is to enhance performance and of course prevent injuries. Warm-up increase the blood circulation in order to raise both the general body and the deep muscle temperatures, it helps heat up the muscles, ligaments and tendons in preparation for more vigorous activity. A proper warm-up provide many benefits due to elevated temperatures associated with it. The likelihood of injury is reduced. Athletic performance can be improved. The warm-up increases muscle efficiency, reduces potential for muscle pulls, improves reaction time and improves the speed of movement of muscled and ligaments.

“Proper warm-up can also help reduce the severity of post-exercise muscle soreness. The higher temperatures and increased blood flow resulting from warm-up are important for delivery of oxygen to the muscles and for prevention of build-up of unwanted waste products which can lead to muscle soreness.” (http://www.fundamentalsoccer.com/members/TOUSI.html)

Although some people usually mistaken stretching for warm-up, the difference is it is important to warm-up first before stretching, because if one stretches the muscles without prior warm-up, the muscles are cold and are more prone to injury, such as muscle tear or strain.

So before enjoying your favorite sport be sure to be equipped with your gears and do some warm-up and be the best athlete you can be!