Whether you're getting ready for a long run, trying to wake up for the day or just trying to stretch out tight muscles and joints, warm-up exercises are simple enough to be done anywhere, including from the comfort of your own home. Perform warm-up exercises whenever you're feeling sluggish or the need to get your blood flowing.
Stretching
Stretching is one of the best ways to prepare your body for an moderate or vigorous workout. In fact, stretching can actually help prevent injury while working out or playing sports, according to the Mayo Clinic. Some examples include hamstring stretches. To perform a hamstring stretch, stand straight up and cross your right leg over your left. Bend at the waist as far down as you can, keeping your legs straight. Hold for 10 to 15 seconds, then switch legs. You can stretch out your arms and shoulders by bringing your right arm in front of your chest, then pressing it to your body with your left arm. Hold for 10 to 15 seconds, then repeat with the other arm. Stretch out your back by standing with your legs more than shoulder-width apart and your hands on your hips. Bend forward at the waist, keeping your back straight, until you feel the stretch in your back. Rotate your upper body to the side, then back, to the other side, then to the front again for an overall back stretch.
Jumping Jacks
To get your blood flowing and your muscles warmed up in preparation for exercise, jumping jacks are simple to perform. Stand with your feet together and your hands at your sides. Jump slightly off the ground and spread your legs. At the same time lift your hands from your sides so they form an "A" over your head. Jump again and bring your hands back down to your sides and feet together for one repetition. Repeat 10 to 15 times to warm up your body.
Power Skips
Like jumping jacks, power skips are an easy way to get your body warmed up and prepared for exercise. Start by standing in an area where you have several feet in front of you to move. Stand with your feet together, then skip forward and jump with your left leg while pushing your right knee toward the ceiling. Continue skipping, alternating jumping with either leg while pushing the opposite toward the ceiling. Pump your arms to help you jump higher.
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