Stretching, messaging and applying heat to muscles is a great way to prepare them for exercise.
Many activities place heavy loads on our muscles, leaving them sore and tight. Stiff muscles are often associated with injuries which can be minimized or prevented by properly preparing the muscles prior to starting the activity.
Do you ever wake up in the morning and every part of your body is stiff? Perhaps the first thing you want to do is lie on your back on the floor and stretch. After lying still for nearly the entire sleep cycle, muscles tend to tighten up. One of the best things that can be done in the morning is to stretch, especially if you plan on going to the gym first thing. Adding heat, especially moist heat, to the area being stretched helps to improve the response time for those muscles to relax. Place a warm, moist Gel Pack in an IceSleeve and pull it tight around you while stretching. It feels good and helps loosen the muscles more quickly. Use your hands to massage the area alternately with applying heat and you will be ready to go much faster than ever, with a lower risk of injury during your activity. Feel the difference heat makes!
For more in depth information on the use of heat, read this article: Thermotherapy
