Best Weightlifting Exercises
I had a fitness instructor in college who always used to say, “The best exercise is the one you’ll do.” Her reasoning was, and is sound and simple: the most important part of any exercise regimen—whether cardio, strength, or sport-specific—is consistency. If I hate running with a passion, but decide that I’m going to do it to get in shape, my chances of failure will be much higher than if I choose an activity I actually enjoy.
The same holds true in the weight room. If you are determined to work on your pecs (chest muscles), but absolutely hate doing push ups and don’t know where else to turn, it probably won’t be long before you start skipping the chest part of your workout routine altogether. For this reason, it’s a good idea to become familiar with all of the equipment at your workout facility, and to learn as many different exercises as you can, to increase your chances of finding something you like.
A list of the best weightlifting exercises from any source would have to be fairly subjective; so rather than bore you with my favorites, here are a couple of tips to find your own.
1. Work with a trainer. Many larger gyms will give you a complimentary training session when you join. Take advantage of this opportunity! If you can afford to hire a trainer, do so for at least a few session, and tell him or her that your goal is to learn a variety of exercises that you’ll be able to do on your own.
If your time or budget don’t make hiring a trainer reasonable, spend a bit of time online. There are numerous websites that offer “virtual fitness trainers” that will provide you with pictures, step by step instructions, and even videos of how to correctly perform different exercises.
2. Go to a class. I am aware that group fitness training is not everyone’s favorite way to work out, but even if you don’t think it’s for you, I urge you to give strength training class a shot. A one time pass or membership to a group training program at a studio or gym is usually more affordable than hiring a personal trainer, and can be a fantastic source of exercise inspiration. Even if you only go every couple of weeks to learn something new, your personal workouts will benefit from the variety.
3. Pick up a health and fitness magazine. These publications feature great, creative workouts from knowledgeable trainers in almost every issue. Often the workouts are on perforated pages or little cards that you can tear out and take with you. Keep these in a binder or box to look through when your in need of some inspiration.
If you really want someone else’s list of the best weightlifting exercises, just do another internet search or pick up a health or fitness magazine. (They have lots and lots of lists, I promise.) But remember this: the best weightlifting exercise is the one you’re actually going to do. So do a little research and figure out your options; then go have a great workout. You’re welcome.
Tags: best weightlifting exercises, chest muscles, fitness training, sport-specific training, Weightlifting Exercises