Recently I have had many people share links to exercise videos that say things like: “Do these 5 moves for flat abs”, or “Best butt exercises”. Most people who watch and share these videos are people who are just starting out, have medical issues or other things that make me think to myself, “Are you really going to do that?”
I recently watched one video that someone shared on Facebook that was promising flat abs. First off, the lady on the video was no beginner, nor was she showing moves that a beginner could do. Secondly, most of the exercises could lead to someone straining their back muscles if they didn’t do it correctly. They might have worked if you didn’t hurt yourself first.
Here is where people who are starting out, or those with issues, need to be smart about searching the internet for their next workout. I have actually tried searching the internet for a video of a lift that I wanted to teach a few of the athletes. I had a tough time finding one that showed correct form and had a clear description of how to do it. So, beginners beware.
Another problem I have seen with people who watch a video and then try to duplicate an exercise is that they THINK they are doing it correctly, but in reality they are not. Being able to have a good sense of body awareness and muscular control is learned and takes time. I have worked with numerous clients who have done ab exercises with their favorite video, but yet never learned how to really engage their core until I gave them a few pointers on form. What’s the sense of doing something if you aren’t really getting the benefit? Worse yet, doing something repeatedly wrong could lead to an injury or tendinitis.
Finally, a lot of the latest research shows that sprint training or high-intensity interval training (HIIT) done in bouts of 15-20 minutes is the most effective way to build strength and endurance. BUT…Are you really going to do that? Chances are the answer is NO! If you are a beginner, older or someone with issues this isn’t appropriate in the form you are going to see demonstrated on the videos and internet. So what can you do?
Don’t throw in the towel just yet. I am here to help you. I have 20 years of experience as a Certified Strength and Conditioning Specialist and can help you get started on the right exercise routine. You don’t have to go it alone and you aren’t stuck with videos and the internet for your next workout.
At the Canton Fitness Center we have something for almost everybody. We have machines and weights if you want to go that route, and we also have group fitness training if you like that format. The biggest thing is, I can help you make sure you are doing appropriate exercises for your fitness level and medical needs. We don’t have a “one-size-fits-all” approach. Your workout should be as individualized as you are.
If you are tired of seeing videos and saying, “Am I really going to do that?” then you need to stop into the Canton Fitness Center for the professional help you need. www.CantonFitnessCenter.com