In a world of workout fads and fashions, weight lifting exercises are the tried and tested forumula and weight lifting programs only develop in sophistication.
Sometimes it's easy to forget that some of the most simple and effective workouts are the traditional ones - running outside, swimming, or weight lifting exercises! Once you know how effective these can be, you realise why they are still so popular and thefitmap.co.uk has a number of tips and simple advice to help you.
If you're going to get started on lifting heavy weights, then finding weight lifting exercises and programs that deal with the basics first is vital to prevent injuries. The first issue to look at is the different types of equipment. These can be broken down into two categories, machines and free-weights.
Machines are easier for beginners to get to grip with, and safer when lifting without a partner. They can also be a good solution for someone who is setting up a home gym and wants an all-in-one piece of equipment.
Free weights take more getting used to, but are overall more effective - they are more adjustable, allow you to work through a more natural range of motion, and offer an almost infinite variety of exercises. Free weights include both dumbbells and barbells. Most people use a variety of both to provide a more varied and interesting workout.
Whichever equipment you use, the crucial thing is to use good technique. Good technique means moving the weights slowly and smoothly, without jerky movements. Never bang the weights around, and don't lift more than is comfortable. If you have to compromise your technique to lift a weight, then you're lifting too much.
Finally, you should aim to exercise each body part two or three times per week, allowing at least 48 hours between workouts.
