What is the recommended order for a typical practice warm-up?

• A. Static stretches, cardio, rehearsal with counts
• B. Dynamic warm-up with light cardio, followed by dynamic stretches, then rehearsal with counts
• C. Rehearsal with counts, cardio, then stretches
• D. Cardio only

Answer: (B)

A good warm-up should ramp up readiness in a gradual, movement-focused way. Start with some light cardio to raise heart rate and increase blood flow, warming the body and joints safely. Next, move into dynamic stretches that take muscles through their ranges of motion with controlled movement—this keeps you flexible while preserving power for the work ahead. Finish with rehearsal with counts so you apply the timing and technique in the exact pattern you’ll perform, now with the body already prepared. This sequence reduces injury risk and enhances performance because you first elevate temperature and circulation, then mobilize joints dynamically, then prime neuromuscular coordination for the actual practice. Static stretches are not ideal at the start because they can temporarily dampen power, and skipping the dynamic phase or the rehearsal step can leave you unprepared for full-intensity choreography.