Why should you refrain from locking out during strength training? This is a gym rule that I am sure you have heard before, even if you have been training for a short time. “Locking out” refers to stretching your arms or legs as far as they will go and then locking your knees or elbows in place.The biggest reason that you should refrain from doing this is because it can cause joint injury. This, in turn, can prevent you from participating in your training routine for weeks or even months at a time. If you are participating in strength training for increasing your overall level of fitness, (toning the body or for bulking), t
The biggest reason that you should refrain from doing this is because it can cause joint injury. This can prevent you from participating in your training routine for weeks or even months at a time. If you are participating in strength training for increasing your overall level of fitness, (toning the body or for bulking), try and keep your elbows or knees with a slight bend in it. (See above pic.)
Strength training is an excellent form of exercise for many reasons, but it has to be done correctly. When you do this type of exercise the right way, almost anyone can do it safely. This is true even for beginners who may have minor issues with their joints. People with arthritis can participate in weight training by using machines and resistance bands versus dumbbells or bench weights. Before starting any program, always consult with a physician who knows your health and physical condition to help keep you safe and on track.
When you participate in a strength training routine, your overall level of flexibility increases. If you have problems with being limber, the fact that you are building muscle can often reduce or even eliminate this. If you get in the habit of locking out while you are exercising, the tension is not directed towards the muscles you are working. All of the tension is resting on your joints. You are doing yourself a disservice because it requires more reps and more routines in order to achieve the same results you would get if the proper form was used the first time.
Ideally, you should do your strength training exercises enough times that you start to feel burning in the muscle. In addition, you should be using just enough weight that feels challenging, yet not so much that you feel pain while lifting. Also using too much weight compromises on proper technique.
By working out in this fashion, you can enjoy the full benefits that are available to you through strength training. It also gives you the opportunity to enjoy your workout as opposed to dreading it. Ultimately, exercising with the proper technique ensures that you will be able to continue enjoying it indefinitely.
Drew
