What should be the starting effort level for a proper warm-up?

The starting effort level for a proper warm-up is ideally around 40-50% of your maximum effort. This range allows individuals to gradually increase their heart rate, prepare their muscles for more intense activity, and enhance blood circulation without inducing fatigue. At this effort level, the body transitions smoothly from a resting state to one that is ready for more strenuous exercise.

Warming up at 40-50% is beneficial because it helps to loosen up joints, enhances flexibility, and reduces the risk of injury by allowing muscles to adapt to the upcoming physical activity. This is particularly important as starting a workout too intensely can strain muscles that are not adequately warmed up and can lead to injuries.

In contrast, lower effort levels may not sufficiently prepare the body for exercise, while higher effort levels could lead to premature fatigue or stress on the body before the main workout begins. Therefore, 40-50% is an optimal choice for a effective warm-up, providing the necessary preparation without overly exerting oneself.