Be Careful! These Exercises Can Do Major Harm
There is no doubt about it; exercise is good for you. However, exercise safety is something that is not emphasized enough. Just because you watch the right way to do an exercise move on Youtube, does not necessarily mean that you will do the movement right. Furthermore, even professional athletes or exercisers with personal trainers can become injured by doing the wrong type of exercise and weight training moves.
It all comes down to what Alison McGinnis, DPT, FAFS, physical therapist at Finish Line Physical Therapy in New York City says, “If you don’t have enough mobility at each joint to perform an exercise safely, then really any part of the body is at risk for injury.” When an exercise is performed with poor technique, you put yourself in harm’s way. Here are the top exercises that put you at a risk for injury.
Bicycle Crunches
Many gym-goers love the bicycle crunch and try to do as many as they can as fast as they can. However, doing this exercise too fast and too frequently allows the muscle tension in your midsection to drop, putting more pressure on your lower back. Your lower back then gets thrown in an out of extension, which can lead to herniated discs and muscle spasms. Placing your hands behind your head can also strain your neck muscles and spine when you pull up on your head.
The Kettlebell Swing
Kettlebell swings are considered the best strengthening exercises to do. However, it does require correct technique. The movement is not all in your arms, it is instead supposed to come from your lower body. Swinging the kettlebell incorrectly can put your shoulder at risk for a rotator cuff injury or inflammation in the joint.
Bent Over Rows
Rows are a great move to chisel out your shoulders and upper back. The problem with this exercise is that most people perform it by bending at the waist. This puts the spine in a poor position and also forces your whole body into poor posture. It is better to perform a row while lying face down on a bench.
Don’t give up your favorite exercises just yet. Instead, learn how to do them correctly and safely. You need more instruction than just watching someone do a move and repeating them. The Joint is here for you to protect your spine and joints. Stop by for a wellness adjustment today. Our little to no wait times are a plus.
Used under Creative Commons Licensing courtesy of Jonathan Rolande