Training Form





The novice fitness participant is someone that has never exercised or has been away from resistance training for a very long time. In both cases, this person needs to re-learn or develop their training form.

Training form, in this context, means how an exercise movement is executed. For example, is the exerciser maintaining proper alignment so the load (resistance) is managed safety. Faulty movement patterns generally lead to injuries.

The novice should progress through the types of exercises in this manner: machines, barbells, dumbells, compound exercises. Machines are generally recommended because they can compensate for weakness in the novices supporting muscles, ligaments, and lack of experience in executing the movements. In short, machines are very forgiving and are designed to be safe.

Barbells and dumbells require more experience and demand that the novice's body has some basic adaptations to allow for the safe movement. Usually, some core strength must be developed to allow for proper alignment to be maintained during the movement.

Compound exercises require more complex coordination patterns. The exerciser must have some good core strength to avoid injuries.

Finally, we must minimize the risk of exercising and maximize the benefits. Good form is not a goal, it is a requirement. Be safe.