cool down

In physiology, a cool-down is the process of gradually reducing exercise intensity at the end of a session to allow physiological activity to return to normal. This is important because abruptly stopping vigorous exercise can cause blood to pool in the legs, potentially leading to fainting or cardiac complications.12

A proper cool-down involves slow walking and stretching for about five minutes, aiming to gradually decrease heart rate. For individuals under 50, the goal is a heart rate below 120 beats per minute, and for those over 50, below 100 beats per minute.2

Other physiological cooling mechanisms include panting, used by many mammals and birds, which relies on water evaporation from internal body surfaces to regulate heat. Cryotherapy, the therapeutic use of cold, is also employed to control inflammation, reduce pain, and manage swelling. During hibernation, heart rate and respiration significantly decrease to conserve energy.345