The five-minute cool-down routine this expert recommends for people who usually skip it

Woman stretching at home.

Finishing a workout feels great—whether from a sense of accomplishment or relief that it’s over. Either way, most people are ready to hit the showers after the final rep.

A cool-down (and its cousin the warm-up) can feel like an optional extra, but here’s why you should make it a non-negotiable.