Good vs. Bad Pain: The Importance of FORM

Good vs. Bad Pain: The Importance of FORM

No Pain, No Gain? That statement has been around for decades in the fitness world. The industry has led us to believe that we have to stumble out of the gym, feel like we’re dying, puke, or all of the above to have had “a good workout”. Is that really all true, or is it just hype?

Short Answer is NO. you don’t need to be in pain to have a successful workout!

But what is the difference between a “good and bad hurt?” What burning feeling, fatigue or soreness you have during your workout? That is called LACTIC ACID, and it is created when the working muscles are fatigued and do not have a supply of oxygen. Without that, the lactic acid builds up, and you experience that burning or heavy feeling. This is totally normal, and means you’re exercising at the right intensity!

What is NOT okay? Actual physical pain: muscle or joint discomfort that is not normal during the specific exercise. Feeling aches in a non-targeted area (ie a pull in your shoulder during a back exercise) probably means to take caution and slow down.

How can we avoid Pain? Using proper form and an appropriate weight/resistance, will help reduce the chance of pain and injury.

But what is Proper Form, and why is it important?

Proper Form is critical for:

• Effective activation and utilization of the correct muscle groups
• Increased effectiveness of the exercise and time in gym
• Yields increased strength
• Better results overall
• Reduces injury risk
• Prevents muscle imbalances, compensations and possible pain/injuries

You are spending the time making it to the gym, so why not do it RIGHT and get better results, sooner?

Tips to Ensure Good Form:

• Learn how to activate the muscle isometrically first
• Be mindful and focus on the brain-muscle connection for optimal activation
• Use light resistance to master the form before progressing
• Use a mirror, record your exercise to watch your form
• Recruit the help of a professional to teach you how to do the exercises properly and safely!

Questions on Form, Exercise or how to set up your own workouts? Drop me a message below!