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Written by Navneet Kaur, M.Sc. Nutrition & Dietetics

Exercise

6 Exercises to Relieve Muscle Tension After an Intense Workout

After an intense workout, it's essential to cool down. Proper cooldown exercises help relieve muscle tension, reduce soreness, and improve flexibility. Let’s explore 6 cooldown exercises to relax your body. 

Introduction

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Bend forward from the hips, reaching toward your toes. Hold for 20-30 seconds. This stretches the hamstrings and lower back, releasing built-up tension and aiding muscle recovery. 

1. Forward Fold Stretch

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Get on all fours, alternate arching and rounding your back. The cat-cow stretch improves spinal flexibility and releases tension from your neck, shoulders, and back. 

2. Cat-Cow Stretch

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Sit back on your heels, stretch your arms forward, and lower your chest. Child’s pose helps stretch the hips, thighs, and lower back, calming the nervous system. 

3. Child's Pose

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Sit with legs extended, then reach for your toes, gently folding forward. This targets the lower back and hamstrings, relieving post-workout tension. 

4. Seated Forward Bend

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Sit with the soles of your feet together, gently press your knees down. This stretch opens the hips and groin area, releasing any stiffness from high-intensity exercises. 

5. Butterfly Stretch

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Finish your cooldown with deep breathing. Focus on inhaling deeply and exhaling slowly. Deep breathing relaxes muscles, reduces heart rate, and clears your mind post-workout. 

6. Deep Breathing

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Incorporating these cooldown exercises post-workout can reduce muscle tension, prevent injury, and improve flexibility. Always give your body time to unwind after intense training! 

Conclusion

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