The Importance of Warming-Up

Let's talk about the importance of warming up in your training program. If done correctly a warm up can have a lots of beneficial effects on your work out and consequently on your health.
What is happening in your body when you warm up?
When you begin to exercise you are stimulating your cardio respiratory, neuromuscular and metabolic system. Your muscles contraction will demand more oxygen. You will notice a change in your heart rate and breathing rate. As your metabolism increases, your blood moves faster through your circulatory system to be directing to your muscles. More heat and oxygene is released into the muscle fibers, allowing them to use glucose and fatty acids in order to burn calories and make energy available for your training. This gradual physiological response gives the body the time to adapt to a higher intensity training phase.
Frequently asked questions about warming up:
How long do I warm up for? Usually 10 minutes. 
When is my body ready for work out? Use biofeedback, notice and observe the physical signs during the warm up phase ( see above)
What intensity do I start my warm up? Start slowly ( 20 -30% of your Max capacity) and increase intensity until your heart rate goes up to your training zone( Average 120-130 BPM)
Don't confuse cardio training with warming up. A warm up is included in your cardio training time.
The benefits of a good quality warm up are:
More calorie burning by increasing your core body temperature.
A more forceful contraction of the muscles.
Prevention of injuries by improving the elasticity and the contractibility of your muscles.
Prevention of  the buildup of lactic acid in the blood.
Improves joint range of motion.
Lubrification of your joints.

Thanks for reading!
Christian Heno, Owner
Zenergie Holistic Health and Fitness Studio