Making sure you exercise is an important thing to work into your weekly routine. Even if it’s just going to the gym a few days a week – it’s good for the body and even better for your mind. However, while you’re at the gym it’s important to make sure you’re doing your exercise properly and that you’re getting the most out of your work.
Shape magazine published a study that many workout moves and machines are not helping your body at all. In fact, they’re actually harming them in some ways. Here’s what experts are saying could be hurting you at the gym.
The leg extension machine, which is supposed to work your legs and abs, actually causes unnecessary stress to certain parts of your body. According to trainer Lou Schuler, using this machine adds stress to your back; specifically your vertebrae.
In addition, it strains your knees. An alternative to using this machine is to do bodyweight squats. Or if you’re feeling extra fit, do weighted squats. These will allow you to achieve better results, and your body will thank you in the long run!
If you’re trying to get that six pack, using machines that apparently “work your abs” aren’t actually doing that much for you. Jessica Fox, a Crossfit trainer, gives a much better solution to get those abs.
Apparently planking for even just 15 seconds a day does more than the machine! It allows you to engage your core better.
Another workout that is surprisingly harmful is tricep dips. These are mostly put into at-home workout routines, however if they aren’t done properly they can damage your rotator cuff.
If you overload the small muscles surrounding the rotator cuff – then that’s when the damage will start. Instead of tricep dips, Lou Schuler suggests doing cable pulldowns or triceps pushups.
The final piece of advice these trainers gave us is listen to your body. If you’re in pain while you’re working out, don’t just power through.
You should feel fatigue and slight discomfort while you’re working out, because it means you’re doing it right. Pain though is different, so it’s important to pay attention to aches and pains before they become more serious.
