Improved muscle strength encourages us to do the recreational activities we enjoy, like swimming, hiking, and skiing. Always consult your health practitioner before you begin any new exercise program. And remember that pain DOES NOT equal gain. Before using free weights or the equipment in your local gym, make sure you get instruction on each piece of equipment you plan to use. Hiring a personal trainer, especially when you start, will help prevent injury, insure your safety, and help you learn techniques that suit your particular needs and goals.
Many gyms have trainers on staff to help.
Warm up, and don t forget to stretch. Protect yourself from injury by warming up aerobically before you begin your weight workout. To maintain flexibility and help prevent injury, try to do ten or fifteen minutes of stretching and afterward. Serious weight trainers eat protein at every meal. Protein is a necessary component of muscle building and the natural repair system of the body.