While it’s true that using weight lifting equipment has an extensive amount of benefits, there is unfortunately also a risk of severe injury that can be caused by lifting weights. This danger is no valid reason for anybody to avoid the health maximizing power of weight lifting. Like any activity that leads to potential danger, there are simple precautionary measures that need to be taken before pumping iron.
Have a Partner and Have a Clear Mind
The first cardinal rule to lifting weights is that you have to do it with a clear mind. Mind altering chemicals and weight lifting do not mix. Lifting weights while intoxicated on alcohol or any other mind altering substance puts you in grave danger, as well as anybody that is around you. Having a partner who is of sober mind and body is also important. Even if your weights are held by a cable and you do not require a partner to spot; it always helps to have another person around who is able to be around in case of an emergency.
Prepare Your Body
Weight lifting works because it tears and rebuilds muscles. Before you use weight lifting equipment, give your muscles a chance to warm up by stretching them out. Engaging in a brief, but thorough, stretch routine before you hit the weights; helps decrease the chances that you will end up with sore muscles later. Not only does it help prevent soreness; stretching before, during, and after your workout delivers a much needed amount of oxygen to the muscles; thus maximizing all of your efforts on the weights.
Use Proper Lift Procedures
One of the leading causes to weight lifting injury is a slip of the back from having moved inappropriately carrying a heavy amount of weight. It is important to remember that any squats or other lifting should be done with the legs primarily, instead of the back. Instructions on all equipment should be followed explicitly, so to prevent any harm that would come your way by misuse.
Know Your Limits and Stay Within Them
If you have never lifted weights before, you will not be very familiar with how much you are able to lift. Now don’t get confused about these words. Just because you may be able to lift one hundred fifty pounds doesn’t mean you will be able to workout with that much. If you cannot complete a smooth controlled repetition with the selected weight, then it is too much. If you are just beginning, start low to find your ideal starting weight. This is a weight that is not terribly easy to lift repetitiously, but far from impossible. As you get more experience lifting weights, your strength will improve; and you will eventually increase the amount you are lifting.
Depending on your age, you may want to check with your doctor before commencing any workout routine, especially with weights. There are certain health conditions that are not ideal for weight lifting. If you are ready to start getting in shape today, weight lifting equipment can help you get the body you are seeking.
