Cool down exercises are just as important as your warmup. Here, top trainers share their favorite ways to power down after a tough workout.

And try following your workout with a quick cool-down session. A warmup and cool-down may add a few minutes to your exercise routine. But they might also lower stress on the heart and other muscles.

HIIT workouts are popular, but you should make sure to cool down properly after pushing through intervals. A physical therapist shares his top stretches.

To cool down your body quickly after a midday workout, it's best to stretch for 10 minutes before hopping in the shower. Photograph via Shutterstock.

You definitely shouldn't skip cool-down exercises after a workout or run. These moves are worth your time and help boost recovery and performance, per trainers.

Why warm up and cool down Warm-ups and cool-downs generally involve doing your activity at a slower pace and reduced intensity. Warming up may help prepare your body for aerobic activity.

A word about stretching If stretching exercises are part of your workout routine, it’s best to do them after the warm-up or cool-down phase, when your muscles are already warm.