Cool Down Is An Important Part Of The Workout

After a workout an athletes can feel as hot as a volcano Coach Henry Williams is going to share just what to do after a workout.

Coach Henry Williams

I see many kids try and skip the cool down phase of their workout or the parents rush their kids off the track to get home. I think to my self if only they knew. Of course I teach the importance to my athletes and their parents too ,but sometimes they still sneak off. Cool down is a very important part of every workout. It doesn’t take more than 10 minutes start to finish. There are many things the athlete can do to cool down properly.

Lightly jog around the track or across the infield
Jog walk
After a light jog, stretching

The cool down helps with the following:

Helps muscles recover and repair for the next workout
Creates a mechanism of waste product removal such as lactic acid
Creates a mental let down and gradual physical rest from the work out itself
Helps the heart rate and respiration return to normal non exercise rate

How do you know when the athletes is properly cooled down?

The athlete will no longer sweat
Her skin will be cool to the touch

The best and my favorite way to complete a proper cool down is with a light snack within the first 15-20 minutes after the cool down is complete. A small piece of fruit and a cheese stick, or a homemade smooothie is a great protein fat and carbohydrate combination. Of course, don’ t forget to hydrate with water. The small meal is what is called a recovery meal and helps muscle repair from the workout micro tears that occur.

Coach Henry Williams

Quiet Fire Track Club Bantam Girls Coach