Why Warming Up Before Exercise Is So Important for Joint Health

Exercise is absolutely critical for your well-being. That said, it can also take a toll. You can hurt your joints if you work out too much, particularly if you don’t have good form. 

Fortunately, you can do something to offset that risk, and it only takes a few minutes. 

Warming up before exercise helps to reduce the strain on your body as you work out. This means you get more of the benefits of that activity with a lower likelihood of injury. 

Here at Reconstructive Orthopaedics of Central Florida in Ocala, Florida, Karl Siebuhr, MD, and our team can help you develop a personalized warm-up plan. As experts in orthopaedic trauma, we’ve treated our fair share of sports injuries. We know common causes for joint issues and we can help you steer clear of them. 

That said, a warm-up plan doesn’t have to be complicated. Here’s what everyone should know. 

How your warm-up impacts your workout — and your joints

When you take the time to gradually work your way up to your desired intensity level, you give your body time to adapt. As you get moving, your body temperature starts to tick up. Your blood vessels open wider, supplying your muscles with more oxygen. As the muscles move, they get warmer and looser, better able to support you. 

When your muscles function their best, they provide the support your joints need. They act as a protective brace, absorbing shock and powering your movement. 

In short, your warm-up helps to reduce wear-and-tear on your joints so you can continue comfortably doing the activities you love for years to come. Good muscle function, as supported by a warm-up, may even help to prevent osteoarthritis.

In fact, warming up is so important for joint health that experts specifically recommend it for people who already have arthritis. 

The benefits of warming up don’t stop at your muscles and joints, either. Because a warm-up lets your heart rate increase gradually, it lessens strain on your cardiovascular system, too. 

The right warm-up for your joints

The best way to ready your body for movement is to do your chosen activity, but at a lesser pace. If you’re planning to go for a run, for example, walk briskly, then slowly jog to ease your joints into the activity. If you’re going to be cycling, take a few slow laps around the block first.

Even five minutes of warming up can make a big difference. The longer you plan to workout, though, the longer your warmup should be. Give yourself at least 10 minutes to warm up if you’re planning a particularly strenuous session. 

Dr. Siebhur and our team can help you develop a warm-up plan that works for your body. For help, call our office or request an appointment online.