Top 5 most common gym workout injuries and how to avoid them
Working out at the gym is a great way to stay in shape, build muscle, and improve overall health while also socialising and creating a strong routine for personal growth. However, as with any physical activity, it can also lead to injuries if you’re not careful and you don’t know what you’re doing.
That’s why we’d always recommend getting started with a personal trainer unless you want to be making a call to a no win no fee solicitor in the near future. But before you even start perusing local gyms, here are a few of the most common injuries you might want to be aware of.
Strains and sprains
Injuries occur when muscles, tendons, or ligaments are stretched beyond their capacity. Strains usually occur in the back, neck, or legs, while sprains are more common in the ankles, wrists, and knees. To prevent strains and sprains, it is important to warm up properly before exercising and to stretch after your workout. Also, make sure to use proper form and technique during your exercises.
Shoulder injuries
These injuries can be caused by repetitive overhead movements or by lifting weights that are too heavy. The most common shoulder injuries include rotator cuff tears, shoulder impingement, and shoulder dislocation. To prevent shoulder injuries, it is important to use proper form when lifting weights and to avoid lifting weights that are too heavy for you.
Knee injuries
These injuries can be caused by overuse or by using improper form during exercises such as squats and lunges. The most common knee injuries include patellofemoral syndrome, anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) tears, and meniscus tears. To prevent knee injuries, it is important to strengthen the muscles around the knee joint and to use proper form during exercises that involve the knees.
Lower back injuries
Lower back injuries are common among weightlifters and people who perform exercises that involve bending over, such as deadlifts and rows. These injuries can be caused by lifting weights that are too heavy or by using improper form. The most common lower back injuries include muscle strains and herniated discs. To prevent lower back injuries, it is important to use proper form during exercises that involve the lower back and to avoid lifting weights that are too heavy for you.
Wrist injuries
These injuries can be caused by using improper form or by using equipment that is not properly adjusted. The most common wrist injuries include carpal tunnel syndrome and wrist sprains. To prevent wrist injuries, it is important to use proper form during exercises that involve gripping and to make sure that equipment is properly adjusted to fit your body.
Injuries can always happen when working out, but they can be prevented with proper form, technique, and preparation. Always warm up properly before your workout and if you experience pain or discomfort, stop immediately and seek medical attention if necessary. Remember, prevention is key to staying injury-free and continuing to enjoy the benefits of a regular gym routine.