What is the primary purpose of a cooldown after exercise?

The primary purpose of a cooldown after exercise is to gradually lower the heart rate. After an intense workout, the body needs to transition from a state of heightened activity to a calmer state. A cooldown allows the heart rate to decrease steadily, which helps prevent sudden drops in blood pressure and promotes proper blood circulation back to normal levels.

This gradual reduction in heart rate is important for overall cardiovascular health and aids in the recovery process, minimizing dizziness or fainting that could occur if the body was to stop abruptly. The cooldown can also include light aerobic activity or stretching, which can facilitate muscle recovery, but the focal point is primarily about returning the heart rate to its resting state in a controlled manner.