When you're getting ready to drive your car, you usually allow it to warm up before you take off. Why shouldn't you do the same for your body? Warming up your car's engine prepares it for rushing through the morning traffic and picking up speed on the highway. Just like your car, your body needs preparation in order to go from a resting state to active motion. You don't jump out of bed, sprint to the toilet (unless you really have to go), run to the kitchen, and chug your coffee, do you? Going from 0 to 100 miles per hour isn't the safest way to start your day or to start exercising.

The following list shows you a few ways you can benefit from your warm-ups:

• Your muscle metabolism is more efficient at slightly higher temperatures (and your body temperature rises as you begin to warm up).
• Warm-ups may help to prevent injury during your workout.
• You increase the blood flow to your heart and muscles.
• You increase the flexibility of your joint and connective tissues.
• The lubrication within your joints is increased, making it easier for you to move your limbs.