Is something missing from you workout?

If you’re short on time, it’s easy to cut corners in your fitness routine. But the reality is that you really need to go the extra mile, before and after your workout, to avoid injury.

Always start your workouts with a 5 -10 minute warm up to get your blood flowing and your muscles moving.

It is generally accepted that the best warm up is a mild version of the activity you’re already planning to do. Walk and lightly jog before a run, or do some light cycling before a cardio class.

And once you’re finished with your workout, don’t forget to cool down. It is never a good idea to stop abruptly after an intense session. This can put undue stress on your heart. Carve out at least 5 minutes to let your body return to homeostasis.

Stretching after a workout is recommended because your muscles are ready to elongate, which can mean a reduced risk of injury and muscle soreness. Such exercises can push the lactic acid and other unwanted substances out of the muscles.

In short, putting the time in will benefit your body in the long run. When you slow down and exercise the right way, you will experience fewer occurrences of injuries and increase your workout enjoyment.