Tuesday, 3 March 2009

Things I don't agree with

I see alot of weird things in the gym when training or training others. Some are people just uneducated and not knowing the correct movement whilst others are taken straight out of a fitness magazine but not done with great technique.

However there are a few things I see that I don't think anyone should be doing as they will result in an injury.

Tyre Flipping - Now I know there is a big trend these days for strongman type training, however most people when performing these type of movements just result in loading their spine during severe flexion. This is a sure way to get a sore back. I don't think the exercise is even needed to improve power and explosiveness when you can do safer alternatives such as Olympic lifts and med ball work.

Smith Machine Squats - These are just terrible. It is the same as a leg press. Whats the point? You are basically just lifting the bar up and down in one plane of motion. It has no functional benefit whatsoever and will result in an injury of the knees or lower back depending on the position you place yourself under the bar. Actually the smith machine should not be used for anything except putting the bar in the highest setting and doing pull ups from it.

Crunches - why oh why do so many people believe you need to do hundreds of crunches to get a six pack. You are putting your spine in severe flexion with every crunch. Here's a better way to get a six pack, sort out your diet and add some high intensity sprints at the end of your strength sessions.

I could go on all day but you get the gist. Think before placing something in your workout. What are the benefits and what are the risks involved.