When it comes to working out, many of us are eager to jump right into the main event—whether it’s lifting weights, running, or hitting a high-intensity interval training (HIIT) session. But skipping your warm-up is a mistake that can cost you more than you realize. A proper warm-up is not just a formality; it’s a critical component of any effective fitness routine. Here’s why warming up before a workout is so important and how you can make the most of it.