Have you just finished your running workout? Then don't forget the cooling down. This is important to get your body back into a state of rest and promotes recovery. Cooling down is often skipped, but this is not recommended. We give you information and exercises for a good cooling down below. Read on quickly below.
What is a cooling down?
A cooling down is actually the opposite of a warming up. While a warming up prepares your body for physical exertion, a cooling down helps your body gradually switch to rest. This promotes the recovery process. By slowly reducing the intensity of your workout, you lower your heart rate and slow down your circulation. Instead of stopping abruptly, you allow your body to cool down in a controlled manner.
Why is a cooling down after running actually so important?
A cooling down helps your body gradually unwind after exercise. And this has several health benefits. We list them for you below:
- A cooling down reduces the risk of dizziness by gradually lowering your heart rate.
- Better training results by promoting recovery.
- Helps reduce muscle swelling.
- Promotes the removal of accumulated waste from your body.
- Calms your nervous system after intensive training.
- Provides new blood supply and nutrients to tired muscles and joints.
- Helps prevent injuries by allowing the body to cool down slowly.
What exercises can you do?
There are several exercises you can do for proper cool down. Below we give you some tips.
- Stand on one leg and grab the other foot. Find your balance, bring your knees together and push your hips forward slightly. In the process, you are stretching your upper leg. Alternate this.
- Put your legs in a spread position and push your right knee towards your right toes. You'll feel the stretch in your left thigh on the inside. Then switch legs.
- Put your feet shoulder-width apart. Hook your thumbs together behind your back and bend forward, your hands going into the air. Be careful not to push through too much, and keep breathing calmly.
- Put one foot in front of the other long, and bend forward as far as you can. Then switch legs.
What else can you do for an ideal running experience?
Besides doing a good warm-up, there are a number of other things you can do for a perfect running experience. These include using compression socks and compression shorts. These offer support and reduce the risk of nasty injuries. Also, using running insoles that provide adequate cushioning and stability.
Need more information?
Do you have any questions or comments after reading this article? Then contact our highly knowledgeable customer service team. They are ready to answer all your questions and help you on your way. We can be reached via phone, e-mail and live chat.
