“Before training or playing a match we go through a lengthy warm up routine in order to minimise the risk of injury. Coming from a sporty family I have always been taught the positive effects of a solid warm up routine.” Wigan Warriors loose-forward and captain Sean O’Loughlin

Why warm up before exercise?
It is important for you to warm up before exercise to help avoid injury. Warming up also prepares the body for exercise and increases the blood flow allowing muscles to move more freely.

How do I warm up?
A warm up should usually involve a gentle activity that increases heart rate and makes you feel warmer than usual. It is also important to warm up the muscles related to the type of exercise you will be doing. If you are a runner you should pay particular attention to the legs.

• A gentle walk or jog- These activities are not too strenuous and help prepare your body for more rigorous exercise. You could try doing this with your friends to increase motivation.
• Skip for 5 minutes- Skipping is a great way to start an exercise routine as it uses a wide range of muscle groups.
• Stretch- This helps to increase the blood flow in vital muscles and helps your body cope with an intensive workout.

Disclaimer
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