Why is flexibility a significant outcome of a proper warm-up?

Flexibility is indeed a significant outcome of a proper warm-up, particularly because it contributes to injury prevention. Engaging in a warm-up that incorporates stretching and mobility exercises helps increase the temperature of the muscles and enhances muscle elasticity. When muscles and connective tissues are more pliable, they are less prone to strains and tears, which can occur when cold or tight muscles are subjected to sudden or intense forces.

Additionally, warming up prepares the body for physical activity by ensuring that joints have a full range of motion, reducing the risk of overuse injuries during exercise. The improved flexibility achieved through a good warm-up allows for better movement quality and efficiency, which is essential in both athletic performance and everyday activities.

While flexibility can support greater lifting capacity, that is not the primary focus of a warm-up, and stretching applies to the whole body, not just the lower body. Therefore, emphasizing the role of flexibility in injury prevention highlights the critical importance of effective warm-up routines in any exercise regimen.