Running Warm-Up and Cool-Down: Simple Routines That Work
A short warm-up improves performance and reduces injury risk. A cool-down helps your body recover and keeps the next run easier.
5-Minute Warm-Up
- 2 minutes easy jog or brisk walk
- Leg swings, 10 per side
- High knees, 20 steps
- 3 short strides at moderate pace
5-Minute Cool-Down
- 3 minutes easy jog or walk
- Calf stretch and hip flexor stretch
- Slow breathing to relax the system
Bottom Line
Warm-ups and cool-downs do not need to be long. Consistency matters more than complexity.