

Gym Mistakes



by
Jim Richmond
Starting a workout program without knowing what you're doing gives you more problems than results. This month Sexbuzz presents some common mistakes you should know about, in order to increase the size and strength of your muscles without having problems.
Starting too heavy:
The proper amount of weight for each exercise depends upon the individual user. It is up to you to gauge your limits. Select the amount of weight that you think is right for you. Resist the temptation to lift as much as you can the first few times in the gym, even if the guy next to you is lifting more. While your muscles may be able to lift the weight, your connective tissues probably aren't ready for it. There's no sense in trying to lift a big amount of weight if you shorten your limbs in the process.
Nutritional supplements:
Many nutritional supplements are marketed using deceptive, misleading or downright dishonest claims. Although many of their claims are unsubstantiated, such substances can be marketed without the FDA review of safety and effectiveness. Another problem with these "magic pills, powders and potions" is that the concentration of active ingredients can greatly differ from product to product due to the lack of regulatory control. Although some supplements may confer beneficial effects, most are associated with various adverse side-effects. You should remain skeptical when considering nutritional supplement use.
Holding your breath:
In order to obtain the greatest benefits from exercising, it is essential to breathe when you lift. Sometimes you concentrate so much on doing it correctly that you forget to let your body do its natural things, like breathing. Proper breathing is very important. Exhale during the exertion stage of each repetition and inhale during the return stroke. Never hold your breath, holding your breath can raise your blood pressure and, if you hold it long enough, cause fainting.
Not using collars:
Everybody has a weaker side of the body, and this weakness is exaggerated in the initial phases of weight training. Always use collars on the bars when you're working without a spotter. During a lift, the bar may begin to lean imperceptibly toward the weaker side of the body. Use collars if you don't want a red face or something more serious.
Fearing that you'll get too big:
Don't ever say this in the gym. Plan to spend the first couple of weeks familiarizing yourself with the equipment and learning the proper form for each exercise. The reality is that few people put on as much muscle as they want, so don't be afraid of getting too big. Most settle for a physique better than the one they started with.
Spotting incorrectly:
If you think you're going to need a spot, ask for it, don't wait to scream loudly for help once you're in trouble. If you're asked to spot a guy who's benching 600 pounds and you know you couldn't roll that, be honest and say so. To fail as a spotter and endanger someone is unforgivable.