Cool-Down

A cool down is a period of gentle activity post-exercise that actively reduces the body to a normal resting state. A thorough cool down is important as it allows and encourages the removal of waste products that are produced as a by-product of exercise, such as lactic acid.

Some studies credit this short period of low-intensity exercise with reducing recovery time and injury risk.
An example of a cool down is a gentle cardiovascular activity such as jogging, reducing in speed and intensity to a gradual walk.