Cooling Down

Often everyone is in a hurry to get their workout over and done with and skips the cool-down. After the end of your workout, it is important to gradually cool-down. Cooling down after exercise prevents blood from pooling in your extremities. If you stop suddenly after a vigorous workout you may experience a feeling of lightheadedness, nausea, or even fainting.

Instead, slow down your level of activity by engaging in light exercise such as walking or light jogging for around 5 to 10 minutes. This will help your heart rate and breathing to gradually return to your normal resting level. Cooling down will also help to remove the build up of lactic acid from your muscles and may minimise or prevent post-exercise muscles soreness. An effective cool-down will allow your body time to recover after intensive exercise. The length of your cool down will depend of the intensity of your workout and your level of fitness.

After the cool-down is the perfect time to get some protein into your body so that the process of muscle repair and recovery can begin. Solid food takes time to digest and break down, so a protein shake is the fastest way to deliver protein to your muscles. Drinking a quality protein shake like Fitique Nutrition’s Skinny Whey immediately after your cool-down will quickly deliver 20 grams of quality protein isolate to your muscles.

Your cool-down should also include some stretching. Stretching will help to relax your muscles and improve your flexibility. You should ensure that you stretch all the major muscles you used during your exercise session. Stretching after your workout will help to reduce muscle soreness and improve your rate of recovery.