How To Avoid An Injury While Working Out

Quick tips to make your gym experience more productive and safe

by ROCÍO FORTUNY ★ GRAPHICS by DANNY KAHN ★ NOVEMBER 15, 2019

No matter how cute your Nike Air Force 1s are, they’re not the best shoe for the gym. Instead, trade them for a pair of well-kept running shoes. This way, you’ll protect your knees and back from impact injuries. You'll be able to sweat and squat as often as you want without pain.

Check your knees! With any booty or leg exercises make sure that as you bend your legs, your knees should always face forward. You’ll be able to push yourself further and do more reps or weight if you want to in a much safer way that is mechanically correct.

Don’t be afraid of machines, they are definitely your friend. You don’t need to leg press 200 pounds for it to be worth it, a few pounds done well can go a long way! Before you start, check the instruction sticker to make sure you use the machine correctly. It’s easier to use than it looks.

Watch your back! Whether you’re using a 5 or 20-pound weight, keep a straight back for over the head lifts. Same goes for push-ups or planks- make sure your back is straight and your core is locked in with your hips and tucked in for any type of exercise. Not only will you give your core some more reps to do, but you’ll keep your lower back injury-free.

Lastly, have fun! Don’t be afraid to lift some weights and try different cardio machines. Bodyweight or Olympic lifting- they all serve a purpose to make you feel good and confident!