Cool down and its benefits

After any activity, the blood is pooled in the extremities, and the heart rate is elevated. The purpose of the cool-down is to bring the heart rate down to near-normal and to get the blood circulating freely back to the heart. Stopping the physical activity abruptly could result in fainting or place undue stress on the heart. Depending on the intensity of the exercise, cooling down can involve a slow jog or walk. 

Benefits:

1.Colling down allows the heart rate to return to its resting rate. 

2.It reduces the dizziness experienced post workout. 

3. It actually reduces the muscles soreness not caused by lactate production during intense exercise. 

4. Duration Can vary for different people, but 3-7 minutes is considered adequate 

5. Stretching,especially static stretching allows the muscles to be elongated and Lengthened. This is the next step athletes should take to cool down. 

6. Rehydration is an essential part of the procedure and should be done either during stretching and light intensity or after these steps. 

7. Refuelling the body with electrolytes like water and sports drinks will keep the body hydrated. 

8. If you stop your aerobic exercise abruptly and do not cool down, the blood can pool up around your muscles in the legs. This can cause insufficient blood flow and oxygen to the brain giving you a light headed and dizzy sensation.

9. Cooling down after a workout is as important as warming up. After physical activity, your heart is still beating faster than normal, your body temperature is higher and your blood vessels are dilated. The means if you stop too fast, you could pass out or feel sick. A cool-down after physical activity allows a gradual decrease at the end of the episode. 

10. It’s good to stretch when you’re cooling down because your limbs, muscles and joints are still warm. Stretching can help reduce the built-up of lactic acid, which can lead to muscles cramping and stiffness