The Real Reason You Should Warm Up
Warm Up Before You Roller Skate
It's easy to forget to warm up before roller skating, but it's definitely something you should try to do every time. You may even wonder whether a warmup is actually worth it. I mean is it really necessary to do those quick movements right before a workout or a Roller Skating Session?
Honestly, the answer is yes. Obviously it doesn’t have to take a lot of time since 5-10 minutes is typically all you need to get your body ready for the skate sessi. So plan to spend more time warming up before our Tuesday evening Roller Dance Classes whereas you can spend less time warming up for our Saturday afternoon "Tips and Techniques" Class.
But what are the reasons why you should warmup?
#1: Enhanced Performance
One of the main purposes of a warm up is to enhance your athletic performance. A warm up can:
Increase blood flow to your working muscles, better preparing them for the additional workload to come.
Increase the delivery of oxygen and nutrients to your muscles, which prevents you from getting out of breath too early or too easily.
Prepare your heart gradually for an increase in activity, helping you avoid a rapid increase in blood pressure.
Prime your nerve-to-muscle pathways to be ready for exercise, which can improve the quality of your workout.
Improve coordination and reaction times.
Increase blood temperature, which can allow you to work out longer or harder.
Prompt hormonal changes in the body responsible for regulating energy production.
Help mentally prepare you for the workout ahead, giving you a few minutes to get “pumped up” for a great workout!
A warm up helps increase the blood flow in your body. In short, More blood going to the muscles, along with more oxygen available to the working muscles, means better performance.
#2: Injury Prevention
Injury prevention is another main reason why a warm up is so important. When you warm up, you give your body time to prepare for the upcoming activity. Doing some stretches is a particular warm up that is known for its role in preventing injuries.
Some types of stretches you may want to try are: forward lunge, side lunge, thigh stretch, side seat straddle and knees to chest stretches. Even walking, running in place or doing jumping jacks will help stretch and warm up the muscles. When it comes to SKATEROBICS®, a good warm up would be great to get that blood flowing and energy rising. Warming up gives your body a surge of energy, which you can use to give it all you got during our SKATEROBICS® classes.
#3: Mental Preparation
Part of a warm-up process includes getting your head ready for the upcoming activity. Mentally preparing for the upcoming workout, or event, is thought to improve technique, skill and coordination.
This mental warm-up also prepares athletes for the discomfort of tough intervals or a race. If the mind is ready to endure discomfort, the body can produce higher speeds. If the mind is unwilling to endure discomfort, physical performance will certainly be limited.
The Takeaway
In the end, warm ups are definitely something you shouldn't forget. They help improve your performance, reduce injuries, and prepare you mentally for the workout to come. So take the time to do those stretches or go for a little walk. Trust me, it's worth it.
If you are looking for a fun and enjoyable group exercise, check out SKATEROBICS!. SKATEROBICS® is a calorie torching, balance building, wheel whirling, posture perfecting, smile inducing full body roller skate workout. We have classes for all levels so don't be afraid to get involved. I encourage you to book a class and start roller skating your way to your fitness goals.
