Popular fitness trends often promise incredible results, but are some exercises more hype than healthy?
“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, which exercises should be approached with caution, and what are safer alternatives? We talked to fitness experts to identify the moves they’d recommend removing from fitness regimens.
Why to Avoid: The Kettlebell Swing
Most people lack the necessary strength and flexibility to execute the kettlebell swing correctly, putting them at risk of back strain and other injuries.
Better Choice: The Goblet Squat
This squat variation improves lower body strength and mobility, engaging core muscles while minimizing strain on the lower back.
Why to Avoid: Behind-the-Neck Presses
This move can irritate the rotator cuff, a group of muscles and tendons that stabilize the shoulder.
Better Choice: Arnold Press
This variation allows for a more anatomical path of motion for the shoulder, reducing the risk of impingement.
Why to Avoid: Crunches
While crunches target the abdominal muscles, they can put excessive stress on the neck and lower back, particularly when done incorrectly.
Better Choice: Plank Variations
Plank exercises engage multiple core muscles, strengthening the entire midsection while minimizing strain on the neck and back.
Why to Avoid: Leg Extensions
This isolation exercise focuses solely on the quadriceps, neglecting the hamstrings and glutes. It can also put stress on the knees.
Better Choice: Squats and Lunges
Compound exercises that work multiple muscle groups simultaneously, squats and lunges strengthen the quads, hamstrings, glutes, and core while improving balance and coordination.
