The Role of Warm-Up and Cool-Down in Physical Therapy
Warm-up and cool-down routines play a critical role in the effectiveness of physical therapy as they help clients prepare their body for targeted therapy and make the transition to a relaxed state afterward. NuStep recumbent cross trainers are routinely used in physical therapy (PT) for warm-ups and cool-downs because they offer a stable, supportive way to get clients moving.
Why a Good Warm-Up Matters
A controlled, gradual warm-up gives the client time to prepare for the physical demands of therapy and helps optimize their performance. It can also help them prepare mentally. In addition to increasing body temperature, a good warm-up:
- Increases heart rate and blood flow and delivers more oxygen to the muscles.
- Heats up the muscles to improve elasticity and minimize muscle strain.
- Lubricates joints to improve mobility.
How NuStep Supports a Gentle Warm-Up
With features like a low starting force and user-controlled step length — along with the fully connected upper and lower body movement — NuStep recumbent cross trainers allow clients to warm-up slowly and gradually.
The NuStep’s smooth-stepping movement feels natural, much like walking, which helps clients ease into the movement with confidence. And with multiple resistance levels, clients can start out at the lowest level and increase the intensity as they become more comfortable.
The Importance of Cooling Down After a Session
Cooling down is especially important after a PT session as it helps the body gradually transition from the exertion of therapeutic workout to its normal resting state. An effective cool-down works to:
- Lower heart rate, blood pressure and body temperature.
- Remove metabolic waste products like lactic acid to prevent stiffness.
- Promote relaxation and support the recovery process.
Using NuStep to Support the Cool-Down Phase
The NuStep is an equally valuable tool for a post-session cool-down. The same features that are conducive to a good warm-up — adjustable resistance, user-controlled step length, smooth-stepping motion — facilitate an effective cool-down. In the case of a cool-down, the goal is to use slow, gentle movements to help the body relax, reset and recover.
NuStep: Not Just for Warm-Up and Cool Down Routines
Beyond putting clients on the NuStep for warm-up and cool-down routines, therapy professionals integrate NuStep recumbent cross trainers into PT sessions because they are versatile enough to take clients through every phase of their rehabilitation program.
Whether it’s to regain range of motion following orthopedic surgery, manage symptoms of a chronic condition or rebuild strength after a cardiac event, the NuStep meets clients where they are and takes them where they want to go.
That’s why PT professionals in orthopedic, neurology, cardiovascular/pulmonary and sports specialties choose the NuStep for their settings. NuStep recumbent cross trainers:
- Fit seamlessly into different rehab programs.
- Support a wide range of abilities and conditions.
- Encourage compliance through comfort and familiarity.
- Create a positive experience that fosters success.
NuStep recumbent cross trainers offer a supportive, adaptable way to guide PT clients through their rehabilitation journey. Explore these NuStep models designed for rehabilitation to see how they can enhance your PT practice. Or, reach out to our expert team today to find the right models for your clients!
*Not available on T4r models.
