Cool Down Routines Example : For the Professional 10 to 15 minutes of easy exercise. Be sure that the easy exercise resembles the type of exercise that was done during your work out. For example, if your workout involved a lot of running, cool down with easy jogging or walking. Include some deep breathing as part of your easy exercise to help oxygenate your system. Follow with about 20 to 30 minutes of stretching. Static stretching and PNF stretching is usually best. Re-fuel. Both fluid and food are important. Drink plenty of water, plus a good quality sports drink. The best type of food to eat straight after a work out is that which is easily digestible. Fruit is a good example. Example 2: - For the Amateur 3 to 5 minutes of easy exercise. Be sure that the easy exercise resembles the type of exercise that was done during your work out. For example, if your workout involved a lot of running, cool down with easy jogging or walking. Include some deep breathing as part of your easy exercise to help oxygenate your system. Follow with about 5 to 10 minutes of stretching. Static stretching and PNF stretching is usually best. Re-fuel. Both fluid and food are important. Drink plenty of water, plus a good quality sports drink. The best type of food to eat straight after a work out is that which is easily digestible. Fruit is a good example.