Hit the Weights the Right Way

Hit the Weights the Right Way

Strength training — lifting weights — is important to building a strong, fit body. Lifting weights helps you tone your limbs and build muscle, and it's great for your bones and your metabolism. But when it comes to lifting weights, form is key! Using equipment incorrectly can cause pain and injury, and at the very least, your routine can lose some of its effectiveness.

To make sure you lift weights — whether in the weight room or at home — the right way, keep these simple tips in mind:

* Stand with your feet separated, one slightly in front of the other.

* Bring the weight as close to your body as possible before you lift.

* Bend at your knees to pick the weight up, and use your leg muscles to hoist it, not your back.

* As you lift and lower, keep your movements slow and smooth — don't jerk the weight to lift it!

* Stand tall — don't let the weight cause you to slump over.

* If a weight is too heavy, switch to a lighter weight and work your way up!

If you keep these tips in mind, your heavy lifting won't lead to a pain in the neck (or anywhere else!).

Get a Sexy Stomach by Spring!

This season, it's time to get that midriff you've always wanted! While your regular cardio workouts are important for burning the fat that's lying on top of your stomach muscles, you'll also want to work your abs with twisting crunches — you'll whittle your middle in no time!

Start by lying flat on your back, making sure that there is no space between your spine and the floor or mat. Contract your abdominal muscles and lift your head and shoulders about 6 inches off the floor, but don't use momentum to lift yourself; you should truly feel your stomach muscles squeezing! Then, twist slightly to the side, reaching your hand to the outside of your right thigh. Keep your shoulders off the floor, holding the reach, and pulse for two sets of 8 to 12 reps; if your neck starts to hurt, double-check your positioning. After you rest for 15 seconds, switch to the left side and repeat the exercise.

With practice, crunches will have your stomach looking the best it ever has!