Is it necessary to cool down? - Exercise & Fitness Message Board

bluehen94 · 02-28-2005, 01:09 PM

I was wondering when finishing a cardio workout is it OK to finish at the same intensity you are working at or should you slow down and do a 10 minute cool down before stopping? If so what is the benefit of doing that?

~*johanna*~ · 02-28-2005, 01:18 PM

In my opinion cool downs are very important. Usually I do a 1-3 minute cool down. Some people, if they are going longer like to do a longer one. But yes, cool downs are important because if you get off the bike/eliptical/treadmill and stop that high-intensity movement so suddenly, you may pull a muscle or something.

ChappyBoy · 02-28-2005, 01:39 PM

Cool downs help prevent injury, and help with performance and recovery. Duration is based on length and intensity of activity. Abrief cool down with some stretching is recommended.

Jess75 · 02-28-2005, 01:52 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by bluehen94

I was wondering when finishing a cardio workout is it OK to finish at the same intensity you are working at or should you slow down and do a 10 minute cool down before stopping? If so what is the benefit of doing that?

Usually, I just make steps by going side to side for about a minute and then do my sit ups. I would cool down because if you don't then the circulatory system is kinda in a shock trying to calm itself down.

bluehen94 · 02-28-2005, 02:00 PM

Hmmmm...well I have been exercising for 12 years plus without cooling down and never had a problem yet, but I guess it doesn't hurt to be proactive and start. Thanks for everyone's responses.