High Intensity Interval Training: How to warm up

Warming up properly before engaging in high-intensity training is crucial to prevent injuries, enhance performance, and prepare your body for the intense workout ahead. Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to warm up effectively for high-intensity training.

Dynamic Stretching

Start with dynamic stretching exercises that involve movement. These stretches help increase blood flow and flexibility. Perform movements like leg swings, arm circles, hip rotations, and torso twists. Aim for about 5-10 minutes of dynamic stretching.

Cardiovascular Warm-Up

Engage in a low- to moderate-intensity cardiovascular activity to raise your heart rate and increase blood flow to your muscles. You can do activities like jogging, jumping jacks, or jump rope for about 5-10 minutes. This helps to gradually elevate your heart rate and body temperature.

Joint Mobility Exercises

Perform exercises that focus on joint mobility and activation. These movements help lubricate your joints and prepare them for the upcoming intensity. Include exercises like ankle circles, wrist circles, and shoulder rolls.

Sport-Specific Movements

Incorporate movements that mimic the actions you’ll be performing during your high-intensity workout. For example, if you’re about to do sprints, perform a few short sprints at a moderate pace. If you’re doing high-intensity weightlifting, use light weights to simulate the movements.

Activation Drills

Target specific muscle groups you’ll be using in your workout. This can involve bodyweight exercises that engage those muscles. For instance, if you’re doing squats, perform bodyweight squats with proper form to activate your leg muscles.

Neuromuscular Activation

Engage in exercises that challenge your nervous system and coordination. These can include ladder drills, agility drills, or cone drills. This step helps to improve communication between your brain and muscles.

Gradual Intensity Increase

If your high-intensity training involves multiple rounds or sets, start with a lower intensity for the first round or set and gradually increase the intensity as you progress. This allows your body to adapt to the intensity and reduces the risk of sudden strain or injury.

Foam Rolling (Optional)

Consider using a foam roller to release tension in specific muscle groups before your workout. Foam rolling can help improve muscle flexibility and reduce muscle tightness.

Final Thoughts

Remember that your warm-up should be tailored to your specific workout and individual needs. The goal is to gradually prepare your body for the demands of high-intensity training. While warming up is crucial, avoid overdoing it, as excessive warm-up can lead to fatigue before the actual workout.

Keep in mind that cooling down after your high-intensity workout is also important. It helps your body gradually return to its resting state, reduces the risk of post-workout soreness, and aids in recovery. This can involve light stretching and deep breathing exercises.

Next week we will cover the benefits of High Intensity Interval Training. Contact Professor Jodey Ingalls if you have any questions or would like to know more.

Pure Martial Arts & Fitness – Professor Jodey Ingalls