How To Not Get Injured Lifting Weights

How To Not Get Injured Lifting Weights

“I want to start lifting weights, but how do I not get injured?”

Many associate lifting weights with getting injured, but that couldn’t be further from the truth. Injuries can happen in any activity, which is why we don’t like to use the term “prevention”. We can’t fully prevent them, but can do our best to immensely reduce the chances.

The beauty about strength training compared to other activities and sports is its extremely controlled environment. With the proper knowledge and precaution taken, we can significantly reduce the chances of injury in the weight room. 

Here’s a few things to consider to keep yourself as safe as possible in the weight room.

Proper Warm-up

A warm up is intended to prepare you for more intense activity and the workout ahead. Make sure you elevate the heart rate, increase core body temp, and do some movements that mimic your main lifts for the day.

Good set up and quality form

We always say “you can’t perform a movement properly if you don’t set up properly”. Focus on having a good set up and precise form throughout the exercise. Our coaches are constantly correcting and teaching throughout your workouts.

Proper exercise choice

Having the exercise that best suits your current fitness level, limitations, and/or goals is key to staying healthy. Just because you see people barbell back squatting on instagram doesn’t mean that is the correct exercise for you.

Load and volume

Most injuries happen when people load too much weight on the bar for their current strength or perform too many reps with a certain load. Controlling how much you lift in a certain set, workout, and week can help keep you in the gym and making progress.

Want to stay safe in the weight room, make solid progress, and not have to think about what you will do each day? Come train with our staff! Hit the button below, grab the intro pack, and get started today!

What People Are Saying About Lift Chicago

  • Lift is THE place to go to perfect your training, perfect your form, and have an incredible time while doing it. Josh and the other coaches are the smartest and... read more

    Jake Morrissy Avatar Jake Morrissy

    I’ve been training at Lift since it opened (and with Josh elsewhere for a few years prior). As a middle aged endurance athlete, I used to think I should strength... read more

    Dana Rothschild Avatar Dana Rothschild

    It’s always been difficult to get into a steady routine and stay motivated, until I started training at LIFT seven months ago with Coach Isaac. Not only do I... read more

    Gabriel Garcia Avatar Gabriel Garcia
  • Looking for a great workout with Chicago’s best trainers, in an immaculate space in Lincoln Park or River North? Then do not delay and book an appointment at LIFT today!... read more

    Kristin Arnold Avatar Kristin Arnold

    I’ve been training at Lift for a year and a half - the workout, professionalism, facilities and trainers are the best of the best. Strength training at Lift has transformed... read more

    Alexi Zloof Avatar Alexi Zloof

    It has been challenging for me to find the motivation to workout since the beginning of the pandemic. Lift has helped me to get back into a routine in a... read more

    Stephanie Garcia Avatar Stephanie Garcia
  • Love the Lift classes- they are really unique, with 5 circuits and a mix of weight stations with some cardio, too (rope pulls, sleds, etc.). The coaches are the best... read more

    Carrie Sweeney Avatar Carrie Sweeney

    Highly recommended. If you want a personalized, thorough, concise workout this is it. Each personal trainer is excellent for listening to your fitness goals, celebrates your achievements and accommodates any... read more

    Kristine Kinder Avatar Kristine Kinder

    If you're looking to train with coaches in safe, and clean environment away from crowds this is it. These coaches have years of experience and bring their expertise to... read more

    Lisa Richards Avatar Lisa Richards
  • I recently joined Lift ~2 months ago and it's been an incredible experience! Whether you're a beginner (like me) or seasoned pro, this gym caters to all. Victoria, my coach,... read more

    Lauren Dicken Avatar Lauren Dicken

    These deserve more stars. Ive been rocking with these guys for years. Always fun and professional. They have help me achieve my body goals by coming 3 days a... read more

    Domique Bland Avatar Domique Bland

    I’ve been training at LIFT for 1.5 years. Each and every one of the trainers are knowledgeable, friendly, professional, and extremely efficient. It’s surprising how great of a workout you... read more

    Kendra Chavin Avatar Kendra Chavin
  • I’ve been training with Sarah at Lift for almost 2.5 years and it has been a great experience! I had never been able to maintain motivation for a consistent workout... read more

    ben schwertz Avatar ben schwertz

    I love going to Lift in Lincoln Park! I've been doing personal training with Abby twice a week for 45 minutes each for about 8 months. I like that they... read more

    Christine Kim Avatar Christine Kim

    Great experience. Had my 1:1 with Chad & Mike years ago pre-Covid. They tailored it to my needs. Give them a try, you’ll not regret it. ... read more

    E M Avatar E M
  • The women's LIFT class has been a highlight of my week for a few years now. Sarah is a fantastic trainer who puts together great workouts and provides helpful feedback.... read more

    Christine Ryan Avatar Christine Ryan

    I've been training with Sarah for two years and she has been amazing to work with! Both locations are clean and the staff is friendly and knowledgeable. I highly... read more

    Kathryn Sugrue Avatar Kathryn Sugrue

    Amazing Gym! All the instructors are incredible! I'm hooked! Never a dull moment! Every single second is used! Scheduling Training! One of the easiest and most transparent sign up... read more

    Erik Fogel Avatar Erik Fogel
  • Doing the group workouts has been the exact motivation I needed. The small group let's the trainer give me personal adjustments and everyone else pushes me to get it done!... read more

    Maya Gorlicki Avatar Maya Gorlicki

    I’ve been training at Lift for almost 2 years and have gained so much confidence in my lifting and strength. Every trainer is approachable and knowledgeable, making for a very... read more

    Mary Harbaugh Avatar Mary Harbaugh

    I recently found Lift on Yelp like a month ago and I’m absolutely loving it. I workout with Sam, Isaac and Kyle and they’re amazing. I’m looking forward to continuing... read more

    Mandy Jo Walker Avatar Mandy Jo Walker
  • One of the best workouts in the city. Always challenging and thoughtful workouts. Being able to see myself grow stronger and stronger week after week is all thanks to this... read more

    Maddie Pass Avatar Maddie Pass

    WOW!!! I cannot say enough great things about Lift Chicago! Truly a fantastic experience. First off, with all things COVID, I felt very safe and comfortable using the equipment. Every... read more

    Alexis Jawny Avatar Alexis Jawny

    Finished my first ten days of training here and truly impressed. The four trainers I alternated between were all very attentive and friendly. Paid attention to my goals and paced... read more

    Alexis Youn Avatar Alexis Youn