What does warm-up and cool-down refer to

Warm-up and cool-down refer to specific phases of a physical activity or exercise routine designed to prepare the body for exercise and aid in its recovery afterward.

1. Warm-up:

• Purpose: The warm-up is the initial phase of an exercise session that involves performing light to moderate aerobic activities and dynamic stretching. Its purpose is to gradually increase the heart rate, blood flow, and body temperature, preparing the muscles, joints, and cardiovascular system for more intense physical activity.

Cool-down:

• Purpose: The cool-down is the concluding phase of an exercise session, involving low-intensity aerobic activities and static stretching. Its purpose is to gradually decrease the heart rate, calm the breathing, and facilitate the removal of metabolic by-products such as lactic acid from the muscles.
• Components: A cool-down may include activities like brisk walking, light jogging, or cycling, followed by static stretches targeting major muscle groups. Holding each stretch for 15-30 seconds allows the muscles to relax and elongate.