Raise the Bar Safely!

When it comes to lifting weights, it's important to practice good habits! Using equipment incorrectly could cause you a lot of pain, or worse, injury. Make sure that when you hit the weight room, you're doing it right. Use these simple tips to make sure heavy lifting doesn't lead to a pain in the neck (or anywhere else)!

* Bring the load as close to your body as possible before you lift.
* Stand with feet separated, one slightly in front of the other.
* Bend at your knees to pick the weight up, and use your leg muscles to hoist it, not your back.
* Keep your movements slow and smooth — don't jerk the load to lift it.
* Stand tall — don't let the weight cause you to slump over.
* If something is too heavy, ask for help!