Beginning to weight train isn’t easy. You have to be dedicated and invest time into learning the right techniques. You also have to have the mindset that you are ALL-IN for the long haul. There will be bumps in the road and it’s far from easy, but the good news is that you don’t have to get there over night. There’s plenty of time, and seeing the results from doing it the right way is well worth it. One way to make this process go quicker is to stay away from pit falls. That’s why I’m going to share 6 weightlifting mistakes that beginners should avoid.
1 – Learn From Someone
I wish I could train all of you and help you out in person, but these tips and videos are the best that I can do under these circumstances. Reading and watching videos are something that you should do on a regular basis in your spare time. That will expand your knowledge of training.
The thing is, there’s only so much that you can do on your own. Hiring an experienced personal trainer or strength coach is another source for success in the weight room. It’s basically like learning on the job.
There are lots of good and bad trainers out there so it’s crucial to find the right one that has the most experience. Here are some helpful tips to finding the perfect personal trainer.
2 – Don’t Forget, Your Body Is Weight!
Why are you even touching weight, if you can’t handle your own bodyweight? If you can’t do the pushup, pull-up, dip, lunge, or bodyweight squat efficiently, there is no reason for you to be doing exercises that involve weights.
Weights are meant to make exercises more difficult. If you haven’t ever lifted before, or even if you have been out of the game for a while; get into the groove of things by doing bodyweight exercises for the first few weeks. Get super efficient at them. That’s how you will gain the most initial strength.
3 – The Squeaky Wheel Gets The Oil
If you need help, use your words and ask! Don’t be shy. I don’t think I have ever seen someone at the gym turn anyone else down who has asked for help.
If you need a spot, or you just don’t know exactly how to do something…..ASK!
4 – Your Definitely Not There Yet, So Get Back To Work
You have done one set, stop flexing in the mirror like you’ve all of a sudden transformed into the Hulk.
The mirrors are for you to self-check your technique, not for staring at yourself. Much less anyone else. That would be super creepy.
The bottom line is, the more staring you do, the less work you’re getting done. Stop flattering yourself and get back to work.
5 – Baby Steps
If you don’t remember how you got around when you were born, let me refresh your memory…You sure as heck weren’t walking! First you crawled, then waddled around holding your parents’ hands, then you walked, and some of you still need to graduate to the running stage!
What you have to remember is that everything in life has baby steps. You’re not just going to “arrive” overnight. Weight training for health and fitness is a lifelong process of learning, improving technique, and getting stronger.
The bottom line is…Keep your expectations realistic!
6 – Never Sacrifice Form For Technique
Trust me, no one will be impressed by the weight that’s on your bar if you look like you’re about to kill yourself with it. Using correct form with less weight will get you way better results.
It’s ok to challenge yourself. That’s how you get better, but lifting form is the first priority. If you can’t keep that up, then suck up your pride and take some weight off.
Avoiding these 6 weightlifting mistakes will get beginners farther a lot faster. I hope this article was helpful. If you need any advice on your workout routine, contact me and I’ll help you out the best that I can. Please also take a few seconds to share this on facebook. You might also be interested in 6 ways to improve your pull-up strength immediately.
About Adam Pegg
