๐๐ผโโ๏ธStart Small: You donโt become CEO on day one of a new job, right? You start with the small stuff, the grunt work, and build your way up from there. Strength training is similar. When we are new, itโs more important to learn correct technique with a lighter weight. In the first 4-8 weeks of strength training, our greatest adaptations are neural! Thatโs the brain’s ability to recruit muscle fibres to contract and perform the movement required. If youโre brand new, resistance bands and light dumbbells are a great place to start. Master the basics before you get into the sexy stuff.ย
๐๐ผโโ๏ธGet help (if you need): We donโt google how to re-wire our house, we hire an electrician. So why donโt we apply that same rule to our health? Thereโs a lot to be said for hiring an educated and certified coach. If you are looking for one, donโt be afraid to ask someone what their certifications are before handing over your hard earned cash๐ฐ
๐๐ผโโ๏ธWarm up properly: This should be a no-brainer; but itโs easy to rush the warm up, or neglect it all together when weโre short on time or just excited to get going! Your lifts will feel SO much better with an appropriate warm up, trust me ๐
๐๐ผโโ๏ธGet mobile: This somewhat goes hand in hand with a warm up, as mobility exercises are often included in a good warm up! Range of motion is an asset for improving your technique and preventing injury.
๐๐ผโโ๏ธBe patient: Remember how I said the gains in first 4-8 weeks are mostly neural? Ya. You canโt see that happening ๐คท๐ผโโ๏ธ So donโt worry if youโre not seeing any physical changes right away, be patient, and consistent, and they will come ๐ช๐ผ
Whatโs the best tip youโve ever been given for starting strength training?