While 热身 (rèshēn) is a practical term, its broad application reflects a cultural emphasis on proper preparation. In many aspects of Chinese culture, from calligraphy to cooking to business, there is a deep respect for process and for not rushing into the main event without being fully ready. 热身 embodies this principle. In Western culture, we often use different terms for different contexts. We “warm up” for sports, but we use an “icebreaker” for meetings. The Chinese term 热身 elegantly covers both situations with the same underlying metaphor: generating energy and readiness. The Western “icebreaker” implies a cold, stiff, or awkward social situation that needs to be “broken.” In contrast, 热身 focuses on a more positive metaphor of generating internal heat and energy to create a smooth transition into any activity.
热身 (rèshēn) is an extremely common word used in various everyday contexts.