You might not have ever thought about this but what do you do once you've finished 30 minutes of cardio and lifted your last rep of your last set? Go home? Not quite.

Just because you've done the hard part does not mean that you should just pack up and head on home. Feel free to congratulate yourself for a job well done, but here are a few more things you should consider doing:

• Hydrate. Just because you're done working out doesn't mean you're done hydrating. Chances are you've lost a good bit of water during your workout, even during Winter workouts, so be sure to keep on drinking water to keep hydrated beyond your workout.
• Cool-down. A 5-10 minute cool down is necessary to bring your heart rate back down to a normal rate, lower your body temperature, as well as help prevent blood pooling, muscle soreness and cramps.

There are a few more tips so read more.

• Stretch. I've said it before, and I'll say it again, "Stretch after exercising." If you need reasons why, be sure to check out my top ten reasons to stretch.
• Eat. This is the one most people have the hardest time with because it seems counter productive, however, it is very important to refuel after a workout — within 90 minutes. I'm not saying you should stop at Macaroni Grill on your way home from the gym, but try to eat something that will help repair your torn muscles and replenish your lost energy.

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