Weight Lifting Techniques and Weight Training Routines

By Wakelin Smith


Weight lifting is a popular strength training activity for people who want to lose weight, improve strength and bone density, increase muscle tone and build muscles. Many people who weight lift do not know how to do so safely.

First, you should choose the correct amount of weights. This means that you should not choose weights that are to light or too heavy for you. You should be able to comfortably lift the weights that you choose at least twelve to fifteen times before you feel your muscles tiring. For many people a single set of twelve to fifteen repetitions is sufficient as you become stronger you can increase the amount of weights you are using.

Skipping warm ups is one common mistake made by weight lifters, both beginners and experienced lifters make this mistake. Ten minute warm- ups of stretching or any form of aerobic activity should be done before attempting to lift weights. Warm ups help to decrease the risk of injuries and should not be left off.

It is also important that weight lifters maintain a proper form while lifting weights. For example, during weight lifting your back should not be rounded. When performing upper chest workouts your incline should not be very steep, your body should be at a thirty degree angle. Your movements during lifting should be slow, smooth and continuous as oppose to fast and uneven movements. Fast and uneven movements during lifting can place unnecessary strain on your muscles and cause unwanted injuries.

If you have pain, don't attempt to work through it. Pain is a sign that something is going awry. As you progress in your workout, pain should not be a part of your practice. It usually means you are not dong something properly, and you should stop the lift, lower the weight value, wait for later or seek out someone more experienced for advice.

Rest is important. Control the weights while lifting. Be sure to keep your movements slow paced and even. Fast and uncontrolled movements can result in the unnecessary straining of your muscles and or injuries. Alternate your workouts so that you do not over work your muscles by working the same muscle group each day. Your muscles require twenty four to forty eight hours rest after every weight lifting work out.

Take your time. Many people hold in their breath while performing weight lifting techniques. This is very dangerous and can cause a sharp increase in your blood pressure. Keep your breathing regular at all times during techniques, making sure to breathe out as you are lifting the weights and breathe in as you are bringing the weights down.

By adhering to these simple tips on how to lift weights safely, you will reduce the risks of common injuries such as fractures, sprains, joint dislocations and long term injuries such nerve damage, bone stress, muscle overload and rotator cuff damage.




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