What is a primary goal of warming up before physical activity?

Warming up before physical activity serves several important functions, and one of the primary goals is to increase blood flow to the muscles. When you engage in a warm-up routine, it gradually raises your body temperature and starts to circulate blood more efficiently throughout the body, particularly to the working muscles. This enhanced blood flow helps deliver oxygen and nutrients needed for sustained physical activity while preparing the muscles for the strains they will face during the workout.

Increased blood flow also contributes to improved muscle elasticity and joint mobility, which can reduce the risk of injury. Overall, this makes the muscles more pliable and ready for intensive movements, leading to better performance and reduced chances of strains.

The other options do not align as central goals of warming up. Lowering heart rate is typically a focus during recovery, not warming up, while building muscle mass quickly is a longer-term goal that is not achieved through warming up alone. Instant flexibility enhancement is also misleading as flexibility gains require consistent training rather than immediate effects from a warm-up.