3. Both jogging and brisk walking are great warm-up exercises
before starting your workout. They help increase your heart
rate, blood flow, and body temperature, which prepares your
muscles and joints for physical activity.
Jogging is more intense than brisk walking and can be a
great cardiovascular exercise. However, if you are new to
exercising or have joint problems, brisk walking may be a
better option as it is lower impact and easier on your joints.
The key is to choose an activity that you enjoy and can
comfortably do for 5-10 minutes before moving on to other
warm-up exercises.
5. Jumping jacks are a great warm-up exercise that can help increase
your heart rate and warm up your entire body. They also engage
multiple muscle groups including your legs, core, and arms.
To do a jumping jack, start by standing with your feet together and
your arms at your sides. Jump up while simultaneously spreading
your legs apart and raising your arms above your head. Then, jump
back to the starting position while bringing your arms and legs back
together.
Repeat this motion for 20-30 repetitions or until you feel warmed
up. If you have joint problems or limitations, you can modify this
exercise by doing a half-jack, which involves only raising your arms
while stepping your feet out to the sides.
7. Lunges are a great warm-up exercise that can help activate
and stretch your lower body muscles, including your quads,
hamstrings, and glutes. They can also help improve your
balance and stability.
To perform a lunge, start by standing with your feet hip-width
apart and your hands on your hips. Take a big step forward
with your right leg, bending your knee and lowering your body
until your right thigh is parallel to the ground. Your left knee
should be bent and hovering just above the ground. Keep
your torso upright and your core engaged
8. 4. Arm Circles
Arm circles are a great warm-up exercise that can help increase
the mobility and flexibility of your shoulders and arms. They can
also help activate your upper body muscles.
To perform arm circles, start by standing with your feet shoulder-
width apart and your arms extended out to the sides at shoulder
height. Slowly rotate your arms in a circular motion, starting with
small circles and gradually making them bigger. Do 10-15 circles
in each direction, clockwise and counterclockwise.
10. Push-ups are another great warm-up exercise that can help
activate your chest, shoulder, and arm muscles. They can also
help improve your core stability and posture.
To perform a push-up, start by getting into a plank position with
your hands on the ground, shoulder-width apart, and your feet
together. Your body should form a straight line from your head
to your heels. Lower your body towards the ground by bending
your elbows, keeping them close to your body. Push back up to
the starting position, keeping your core engaged throughout the
exercise.