ππΌββοΈStart Small: You donβt 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, itβs more important to learn correct technique with a lighter weight. In the first 4-8 weeks of strength training, our greatest adaptations are neural! Thatβs the brain’s ability to recruit muscle fibres to contract and perform the movement required. If youβre brand new, resistance bands and light dumbbells are a great place to start. Master the basics before you get into the sexy stuff.Β
ππΌββοΈGet help (if you need): We donβt google how to re-wire our house, we hire an electrician. So why donβt we apply that same rule to our health? Thereβs a lot to be said for hiring an educated and certified coach. If you are looking for one, donβt be afraid to ask someone what their certifications are before handing over your hard earned cashπ°
ππΌββοΈWarm up properly: This should be a no-brainer; but itβs easy to rush the warm up, or neglect it all together when weβre short on time or just excited to get going! Your lifts will feel SO much better with an appropriate warm up, trust me π
ππΌββοΈGet 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.
ππΌββοΈBe patient: Remember how I said the gains in first 4-8 weeks are mostly neural? Ya. You canβt see that happening π€·πΌββοΈ So donβt worry if youβre not seeing any physical changes right away, be patient, and consistent, and they will come πͺπΌ
Whatβs the best tip youβve ever been given for starting strength training?