4 Weightlifting Mistakes to Avoid
Weightlifting isn’t just for bodybuilders and powerlifters anymore. Whether your goal is to put on muscle, lose weight, or just feel stronger in everyday life, weightlifting is for everyone.
However, as with any exercise routine, there are some best practices to know and common mistakes to avoid. So, the next time you head to one of the best gyms Tallahassee offers or anywhere else, avoid these common weightlifting mistakes.
Mistake 1: Not Warming Up
Weightlifting is fun, and lots of us are excited to jump in and start slinging the iron around as soon as we walk into the gym. However, this can be a mistake, and before you head to the free weights, make sure you properly warm up. Performing less intense exercises before weightlifting can help support muscle movement and elasticity. This, in turn, can help you avoid injuries.
When you go to one of the best gyms Tampa residents visit, make sure to take a few minutes to get your body warmed up. Try doing arm circles, bodyweight squats, hip rotations, and jumping rope. You might even like walking on the treadmill for a few minutes to slightly elevate your heart rate.
Mistake 2: Not Emphasizing Proper Form
Proper form is everything for compound exercises like squats, deadlifts, overhead presses, and more. Having poor form can be dangerous and is ineffective as well. Talk to experienced weightlifters and get tips before starting a serious weightlifting routine.
You can also try a session with a personal trainer, and they can help you correct your form. While you can see your form in a mirror, a second pair of eyes will notice the finer details of your weightlifting form. Practicing proper form isn’t as fun as hitting a PR, but proper form will keep you safe and lift efficiently.
Mistake 3: Lifting Too Quickly
You know the phrase, “slow and steady wins the race”? The same applies to weightlifting. Moving too quickly can be dangerous, and it likely results in poor form as well. Ideally, your movements should be controlled and smooth without any jerking or straining.
Plus, increased time under tension is good for gains. Keep in mind this doesn’t mean you need to lift in slow motion—just make sure you’re moving with intention and not trying to race through every set.
Mistake 4: Not Adding More Weight Over Time
When you get comfortable lifting a certain amount, you might feel tempted to stick with it. Weightlifting is all about progressive overload over time, which means you should be increasing the weight every week for as long as you can. Once you’re able to hit X amount of reps with a certain weight, add more weight and try a set with fewer reps. Eventually, you’ll be able to squeeze in more reps, and the process continues.
You can keep it light if you are new to weightlifting or doing a high-rep set, but your goal should be to add more and more weight as you progress This will continue to challenge your body, helping you feel stronger and start seeing results.
About YouFit Gyms
When you visit YouFit Gyms, you fit in. From a great workout on the grass-like turf to small group fitness classes, a round of pickleball to personalized nutritional help, YouFit aims to help empower your fitness journey and make working out fun again. With state-of-the-art equipment and resources at their Tallahassee, Tampa, and St Petersburg FL gyms, along with many other locations, you have all you need to get in a workout and hit your fitness goals. Small group classes let you connect with the community, and personal trainers help you get the attention and expertise you need to hit your fitness goals. You can find the perfect plan for your fitness journey with different membership plans. See why YouFit is the best gym St Petersburg FL offers and join today.
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