Strength: Teaching Correct Principles11

Free Lifting

-If a person wants to build overall strength, they need to learn proper free lifting techniques.

-Free lifting techniques include free weights, pulleys, and manual resistance.

-Many gyms use machines, but machines only allow for movement in one plane of motion.

-If an individual works out with machines, they don’t have to stabilize the weight against gravity. They will not use all the muscles around the joint for support. This can leave the joint unprotected.

-Poor support or instability can make a joint susceptible to injury.

-During activities of daily living and sports people don’t move in only one plane of motion.

-When free lifting, the client is recruiting all the muscles around the joint to stabilize and support the weight.

-Free lifts allow for movement in all three planes of motion. A person can get in better shape by free lifting than with any other type of exercise.

Core Strength, Balance, and Flexibility

-We can improve core strength, balance, and flexibility with the use of exercise balls, mats, and large movement activities.

-The exercise balls are used for core stabilization and balance.

-The mats are used for stretching and flexibility.

-Large movement activities stretch and strengthen the core muscles of the trunk and abdomen.

-If you’re trying to improve your appearance, posture, or agility these components are a key part of your exercise program.