What should an effective warm-up prepare the body for?

An effective warm-up is designed to prepare the body for a training session or competition. The purpose of a warm-up is to gradually increase heart rate and blood flow to the muscles, enhance joint mobility, and activate the nervous system. This preparation helps to improve performance and reduce the risk of injury during more intense activities.

By focusing on readiness for a training session or competition, the warm-up engages the body in movements that mimic the motions expected during the upcoming workout. This specific preparation aids in activating the relevant muscle groups, increasing core temperature, and improving flexibility, which are all crucial for optimal performance.

While low and high-intensity exercises can be part of the overall fitness routine, the warm-up itself is not limited to these activities alone; rather, it is aimed at ensuring that the body is fully prepared to handle the challenges of the upcoming training session or competition. Flexibility and relaxation, although components of some warm-up routines, are not the primary focus compared to overall readiness for physical activity.