Powerlifting involves training with weights in order to gain strength. This form of training allows you to be in great shape while remaining healthy. While you likely know the many benefits of exercise, it’s important to train properly. If you’re interested in becoming a powerlifter, there are important safety tips to follow. With that in mind, here are five safety tips every beginning powerlifter should know.
- Learn Proper Form
Every type of lift you can perform must be done in a certain way. Lifting weights in a safe manner is known as practicing proper form. One of the most important tips to follow is to learn the proper form for any exercise you plan on doing. It’s dangerous to lift weights without practicing proper form. In addition, learning how to properly perform an exercise only takes a few minutes. - Leave Your Ego at the Door
It’s understandable to want to look like the strongest person in the gym. You need to remember those people have been training for years, if not decades. With that in mind, it’s important to start lifting with a low amount of weight. Generally speaking, you should be able to safely perform three to five repetitions with the weight you’re using. If you start out trying to lift more than your body can handle, you’ll risk injuring yourself. Plus, you’ll have plenty of time for working up the amount of weight you can lift. - Wrap Your Wrists
If not using proper form, lifting weights places a lot of strain on your wrists. Therefore, it’s definitely wise those new to powerlifting to wear wrist wraps. Wrist wraps protect this area of your body during many types of exercises. For instance, these wraps help keep your wrists stable while bench pressing. Wrist wraps are also great to wear while you’re curling. As you perform curls, it’s easy for the wrists to end up doing too much of the work. Wearing these wraps always ensures that your wrists remain straight. - Wear a Weight Lifting Belt
Weight lifting or training belts are crucially important to own. These belts help to ensure that your lower back and core remain properly aligned while powerlifting. These belts are sized traditionally larger than the ones you’re probably imagining. Best of all, these belts are easy to take on and off which means they won’t stall your workout. - Have a Spotter with You
Another important tip is to have a spotter with you. A spotter is someone who goes to the gym with you. This person will stand by you as you lift weights. If you’re unable to rack the weight, a spotter helps this happen. A spotter is vital to have while performing squats, deadlifts, and bench pressing.
To summarize, there are several important tips every powerlifter should know. It’s important to also ensure that you’re keeping a close eye on your nutrition. You’ll find nearly impossible to gain strength without eating enough calories. Therefore, it’s important to maintain a high protein diet while taking part in a powerlifting regimen. Many powerlifters find it beneficial to eat smaller meals, at more frequent intervals.
