The 7 Worst Workout Mistakes: Are You Making One (or More) of Them?

Are you making workout mistakes? Personal trainers are often surprised at how many mistakes are made at the gym, even by those who have the best intentions when working out. Some of these mistakes result in an ineffective workout, while others can end in damage to your muscles, neck or back. Keep reading to find out if you are making these top worst workout mistakes.

Double-check your workout routine to see if you’re making one (or more) of these mistakes: 

1. Too Short of a Workout

If you are only exercising for five minutes on one machine, five minutes on another and just milling around the gym, you are not getting a full workout. Many trainers say that too short of a workout is tantamount to getting no workout at all, and is a big mistake when it comes to seeing results. You want to do at least 20 minutes (at moderate to high intensity) on a workout machine in order for it to prove effective. 

2. Using Machines Incorrectly

Another mistake that people make at the gym is to use equipment incorrectly. This can result in hurting your back or other parts of your body. It is important to use the machines properly to prevent any injuries. If you are unsure about how to use a machine, ask a trainer or qualified staff member at the club. 

3. Wearing Improper Workout Attire

Many trainers say that one of the worst (and most common) workout mistakes is to wear improper workout attire. The wrong shoes or clothes that are ill-fitting and uncomfortable can have a negative impact on your workout, according to trainers. Be sure that you have the right shoes and comfortable clothing when you work out. Remember – you’re at the gym to workout, not to look cute!

4. Weight Lifting Without a Spotter

Lifting weights without a spotter can be very dangerous, but trainers still report that this is among the worst workout mistakes made in gyms. They advise that you should never lift free weights without a spotter to assist you. If you are alone, use the weight-lifting machines instead. 

5. Poor Posture on Machines

Displaying poor posture on workout machines can also result in a bad workout. You need to have erect and straight posture when you are working out to avoid a back or neck injury. This is especially important, as most injuries that occur at gyms are due to poor posture. 

6. Lifting too Much Weight

Straining to lift too heavy of weights can also result in back injuries as well as torn muscles. This can have an adverse effect on your workout as it can prevent you from exercising for weeks. While you do want to push yourself when you are working out, you do not want to push so hard that you injure yourself. 

7. Not Working Up a Sweat Using Cardiovascular Machines

When you are using a cardiovascular exercise machine, your goal is to work up a sweat. If you are going back to the office and don’t want to take time to hit the showers before you do, you are wasting your time on the cardiovascular machines. You need to get your heart rate up so that can reap the benefits of cardio and start to burn fat. 

If you are making these workout mistakes, you need to stop and re-assess your workout plan. If you are unsure about how to get an effective workout, talk to a personal trainer at your health club who can show you how to get off to a proper start.