What is the main purpose of warm-up exercises?

The main purpose of warm-up exercises is to prepare the body for more intense physical activity, and this is primarily achieved by increasing heart rate and blood supply to the muscles. When you engage in warm-up exercises, your heart rate gradually elevates, which boosts blood circulation. This process ensures that more oxygen and nutrients are delivered to the muscles and other vital organs, making them more resilient and ready to perform strenuous tasks.

Moreover, an increase in body temperature during warm-up promotes the elasticity of the muscles, reducing the risk of injury, and improving overall performance. While improving flexibility, building muscle strength, and enhancing endurance are important aspects of overall fitness, they are secondary benefits that can result from a proper warm-up routine. The critical immediate goal is to prepare the cardiovascular system and ensure the muscles are ready for the demands of the forthcoming exercise, confirming that the correct answer focuses on this fundamental aspect.