The purpose of a warm-up is to increase what prior to exercise?

• A. Improve sleep quality
• B. Hydration only
• C. Increase blood flow and heart rate and body temperature
• D. Diminish muscle soreness

Answer: (C)

A warm-up is meant to prepare the body for exercise by increasing blood flow to the muscles, raising heart rate, and elevating body temperature. When muscles are warmer, enzyme activity speeds up, energy production improves, and nerves conduct signals more quickly, helping you move more efficiently from the start of activity. The rise in temperature also makes joints more flexible and softens the connective tissues, which lowers the risk of strains and pulls. While staying hydrated is important for performance, a warm-up’s primary role is not hydration alone, and it’s not about reducing soreness—that outcome relates more to recovery after exercise.