Warming Up Slowly Will Help Boost Performance

Question: Is there any way to warm up faster? For me, starting out is tough, with wind coming hard and my body generally dragging. I guess I’m a slow starter. Once I’m cranked up and breaking a sweat after, say, eight to 10 minutes, I feel gradually better and better through the workout. Any suggestions on how to get out of the gate better?

--K.S., Malibu

Answer: Even though the first part of a run or any exercise can be uncomfortable, there’s really no way to get to a high performance state from a resting state without passing through a warmup. To get the most from your workouts, take the time to warm up slowly rather than going full force in the beginning, which leads to the sluggishness. In that first five to 10 minutes, gradually increase your intensity. Or try warming up with another activity, such as walking or cycling at a low intensity before jumping into your more intense mode of exercises. This warmup time can also be spent working on your technique. (Think of the batter as he takes a few practice swings before stepping up to the plate.) Or do a few stretches for your upper body while you walk; this will help prepare you for your run. Another way to help increase your body temperature before you hit the treadmill or turf is to take a hot shower.

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Stephanie Oakes is the fitness correspondent for Discovery Health Channel and a health/fitness consultant. To submit a fitness-related question, e-mail stephoakes@aol.com. She cannot respond to every query.