Popular Gym Moves That May Be Doing More Harm Than Good
While exercise is undoubtedly beneficial for our health, some widespread gym routines might be causing more harm than good. Many trendy exercises, despite their popularity, simply aren’t suitable or effective for the average person, sometimes even posing a risk of injury, according to experts.
“There are a lot of moves that have become super-fashionable but which aren’t really appropriate or relevant for most people,” says Dalton Wong, a performance coach. “Doing some of these exercises in high volume could predispose people to back pain, injury and muscle or nerve issues.”
So, what exercises should we reconsider, and what should we do instead? Let’s explore the expert opinion on moves that might be better left out of your fitness regimen.
The Kettlebell Swing: A Swing and a Miss?
The kettlebell swing, a seemingly simple movement involving swinging a weight between the legs, is often lauded for its calorie-burning potential and its ability to work multiple muscle groups. However, many people lack the requisite strength and flexibility to perform the swing correctly.
“Most people lack the mobility and strength in their posterior chain — the muscles at the back of their body — to execute the kettlebell swing with good form,” explains Wong.
Incorrect form can lead to back strain, hamstring pulls, and even shoulder injuries.
The Burpee: A Workout or a Wipeout?
The burpee, a high-intensity exercise involving squats, push-ups, and jumps, is popular for its full-body engagement. However, it’s a demanding move that requires a base level of strength and coordination.
“Burpees are very jarring on the joints,” warns Wong. “They can be particularly problematic for people with pre-existing knee or shoulder issues.”
He suggests focusing on building strength and core stability before attempting burpees and modifying them by stepping back instead of jumping.
The Bicycle Crunch: Effective or Overrated?
The bicycle crunch, a core exercise mimicking the motion of riding a bike, is a common choice for targeting abdominal muscles. But is it as effective as it seems?
“The bicycle crunch puts a lot of stress on the neck, and it’s not as effective as other core exercises,” says Wong.
He recommends alternatives like planks, stability ball crunches, and reverse crunches, which target the core without straining the neck.
The Leg Press: Pressing Your Luck?
The leg press, a machine-based exercise focusing on quadriceps work, is often seen as a safe alternative to squats. Yet, it can be deceivingly risky.
“The leg press can put immense pressure on the lower back, especially if your form is not perfect,” warns Wong.
He suggests emphasizing free-weight squats and lunges, which engage more stabilizer muscles and promote greater core activation.
Finding Your Fitness Flow
Remember, the best exercises are the ones you can perform with proper form and without risking injury.
Always prioritize proper technique over lifting heavy weights or rushing through repetitions.
If you’re unsure about the correct form for an exercise, consult a certified personal trainer or fitness professional who can guide you.
are certain popular gym exercises actually dangerous?
## Popular Gym Moves: Harmful Hype?
**[Intro Music]**
**Host:** Welcome back to “Health Watch!” Today we’re tackling a surprising topic: popular gym exercises that might actually be doing more harm than good. Joining us to shed light on this issue is Dr. Emily Carter, a certified personal trainer and sports physiotherapist. Welcome to the show, Dr. Carter!
**Dr. Carter:** Thanks for having me!
**Host:** So Dr. Carter,we’ve all seen those viral workout videos,complex moves,intense routines… but are they all they’re cracked up to be?
**Dr. Carter:** it’s a great question, and the answer is sadly, not always. While exercise is undoubtedly crucial for our well-being, following blindly trendy exercises can be risky. Many of these movements are highly technical and require meaningful strength and flexibility. For the average person, attempting them without proper guidance and preparation can lead to muscle strains, joint pain, and even serious injuries. [[1](https://www.hopkinsmedicine.org/health/wellness-and-prevention/exercise-safety)]emphasizes the importance of considering personal fitness levels and consulting a health professional before starting any new exercise program.
**Host:** So, what are some examples of these potentially harmful moves?
**Dr.Carter:** There are quite a few! Think deep squats with improper form, advanced plyometric exercises without adequate muscle conditioning, and complex yoga poses without proper warm-up.
**Host:** That’s concerning! What advice would you give to our viewers who want to stay safe while getting fit?
**Dr. Carter:** my biggest tip is to focus on fundamentals. Master basic exercises with correct form,gradually increase intensity,and listen to your body.Don’t be afraid to start slow and work your way up. And remember, it’s always better to seek guidance from a qualified fitness professional who can create a personalized plan tailored to your individual needs and goals.
**Host:** Thanks for those valuable insights, Dr.Carter! remember, viewers, your health is a priority, so choose your exercises wisely and always put safety first.
**[Outro Music]**
