Some of the most common injuries that take place in the gym or during a weightlifting routine include injuries to joints (knees, shoulders, elbows, etc.), the lower back, and of course, various muscle groups. For the most part, these injuries are the result individuals who fail to follow proper lifting techniques, try to lift too much weight, fail to warm up, or fail to stretch properly.

Weightlifting safety is an important component to any weightlifting workout or exercise routine. The risk of injury can be greatly reduced if individuals simply take the time to follow a few weightlifting safety guidelines.

Before You Start

Before beginning any exercise or weightlifting routine, it is always best to pay a visit to a doctor or physician to rule out any potential physical problems. A thorough physical exam will reveal any problems that an individual may have with joints, muscles, or any other physiological functions that might be affected by certain types and levels of exercise.

A physical exam can also be a beneficial tool in helping an individual personally tailor a workout to his or her needs.

Take Your Time And Warm Up

No weightlifting workout is ever complete without a good warm up and stretching session. Take the time to stretch out the entire body (from head to toe) paying more attention to the muscles that are going to be used and trained the most during the workout. Although times might differ from individual to individual, most experts recommend spending at least 15 to minutes stretching.

Along with a stretching session, individuals should also spend some time warming up. A warm up before a weightlifting session can not only prevent injury, but also prepare the muscles for the workout to come.

A warm up session can include anything from a jog or a brisk walk, to a set of lifts using light weights right before the actual lift. The main key is not to jump right in to a big lift before the body is ready to start.

Keep Things Clear

One of the easiest ways to avoid injuries in the weight room is to keep the area clear. Leaving weights on the floor or in areas that cause obstructions can be an easy way for an individual to be injured, usually by stubbing a toe or tripping over a weight. Rack all weights and use collars to keep heavier weights from slipping off of the bar.

During The Lift

There are three very important things that any individual must do, in terms of weightlifting safety, to make sure he or she will not suffer an unnecessary injury. First, it is always important for an individual to practice proper technique and form.

Whether lifting alone or with a partner, most machines and weightlifting stations will contain a diagram illustrating the proper lifting procedure for each individual lift. Following proper weightlifting technique is essential for a beneficial workout and for avoiding injuries.

During some lifts, certain areas of the body can become stressed and injured. The areas of the body most commonly injured include the hands, neck, and back. To protect the hands, a pair of weightlifting gloves is usually enough to prevent the development of calluses and blisters. A thick towel behind the neck is a good way to protect the neck from injury during squats, while a weightlifting belt is an excellent way of protecting the back, especially when an individual is lifting heavier weights.

The final, and perhaps most important weightlifting safety tip is to consider the use of a spotter. While an individual can get away with not using a spotter during certain lifts, most injuries in the weight room happen when individuals try to do too much or something new without the help of someone who knows what is going on. Take advantage of the people around you and ask for a quick spot - it doesn\'t look as wimpy as a person might think.