Is it necessary to have a “ warm up” and a “cool down” routine for exercise?

Is it necessary to have a “ warm up” and  a “cool down” routine for exercise? I am a beginner and intend to go to gym soon. I am a first time mum in my second trimester.

Do not rush into your exercise routine straight away without starting with a “ warm up” and  ending with a “cool down”. You might injure your "cold" muscles.

Warming up pumps nutrient-rich, oxygenated blood to your muscles as it speeds up your heart rate and breathing. A good warm-up should last five to 10 minutes and work all major muscle groups.

After your workout, it's best to spend five to 10 minutes cooling down through a series of slow movements. This helps prevent muscle cramps and dizziness while gradually slowing your breathing and heart rate.

Please refer to the article “Exercise during pregnancy” under “Pregnancy”.