Which of the following is a benefit of warming up?

Warming up before physical activity plays a crucial role in preparing the body for exercise, and one of the primary benefits is its ability to reduce the risk of injury. When you engage in a proper warm-up, the body's muscles, tendons, and joints gradually adjust to the demands of the upcoming workout. This process includes increasing blood flow to the muscles, improving flexibility, and enhancing the range of motion in the joints.

As the muscles become more pliable and responsive, this adaptation helps to prevent strains and sprains that could occur from sudden movements or exertion without prior preparation. Additionally, warming up can also activate the nervous system, improving coordination and reaction time, thereby contributing to overall injury prevention.

In contrast, some other answers do not accurately reflect the effects of warming up. Warming up does not increase body fat—rather, it supports metabolism and energy use during exercise. Furthermore, a warm-up does not directly lead to a decrease in heart rate; typically, it causes the heart rate to gradually increase to meet the demands of the workout. Lastly, while it may prepare the body for relaxation post-exercise, the primary purpose of a warm-up is to prepare the body for optimal performance and reduce injury risk during activity.