Jälkijäähdytys

Jälkijäähdytys, a Finnish term, refers to the process of cooling down after physical exertion. It is an important part of a training session or workout, aiming to gradually return the body to its resting state. This typically involves light, low-intensity activity such as walking, jogging, or gentle stretching. The duration of the jälkijäähdytys can vary depending on the intensity and length of the preceding exercise, but it usually lasts for several minutes.

The primary purpose of jälkijäähdytys is to aid in recovery. By gradually decreasing the heart rate and respiration, it helps prevent blood pooling in the extremities, which can lead to dizziness or fainting. It also assists in clearing metabolic byproducts, such as lactic acid, that accumulate during intense exercise. Some proponents also believe that a proper jälkijäähdytys can reduce muscle soreness and stiffness in the days following a workout. The process should be a smooth transition, avoiding any abrupt cessation of activity. Incorporating specific stretches relevant to the muscles worked during the main exercise is often part of a comprehensive jälkijäähdytys routine.