Weightlifting Can Be Intimidating: Where to Begin
By Virginia Laird
Entering a weight room can be an intimidating chore, especially when it has been years since putting weights to use. If you are like me, you are constantly worried about looking silly as a beginner surrounded by those who are devout lifters. Many questions may fill your mind, including:
- Where should I start?
- How do I know how much to lift?
- How will I know if I am doing it wrong?
These are all valid questions which have relatively simple answers. It is important to know you are not alone with any of these concerns. Fitness instructors and personal trainers agree that most have shared these same concerns as beginners, and offer the following advice to overcome fears.
Where Should I Start
It is imperative to start your weightlifting routine where you are comfortable. This may be using free weights, machines, or other devices. There are a variety of ways to seek advice, including:
- Personal trainers - Many gyms have personal trainers on staff to help advise clients on how to use various machines as well as techniques for using weights
- Fitness instructors - Most fitness instructors welcome questions when it comes to fitness guidance
- Online research - If you are a research driven individual, there are plenty of resources online which can answer most of your questions
- Fitness magazines - Such magazines offer a ton of articles highlighting various workouts; some even spotlight workouts for the beginner
- Ask a friend - Don’t hesitate to ask a friend for help; some of the best advice you could get can come from someone who has already fought this struggle
How Do I Know How Much to Lift
Knowing how much to lift in the beginning is simple: Keep it light. There is no need to rush into lifting heavy weights. Doing this can cause injury. Once you have learned and perfected the proper technique for the lift, adding weight slowly may be suggested.
How Will I Know if I am Doing It Wrong
Figuring out how to properly complete the correct lifting techniques can be difficult. It can take a great deal of research, counseling with a fitness instructor and personal trainers, as well as practice to get it right. However, making sure you have the technique correct is vital in preventing injury.
It is time to stop letting the weight room intimidate you and begin adding this to your workouts today. Before you know it, you will see and love the results.
To learn more about your health and wellness, see your local chiropractor at The Joint Chiropractic in Richmond, Va.