Safety in the gym.
Brian October 3rd, 2009
Most of you have probably heard about the USC football player who recently dropped a bar on his throat while bench pressing. This is a horrific injury, which probably could have been prevented had proper procedures been in place. Listed below are a few safety tips for two common weight training exercises with potential for injury.
Bench Press and Squat: Always have a spotter!
a) Make sure you have at least one back spotter that can stay close in case you fail or the bar slips.
b) When going for a max attempt have a spotter behind you and one on each side.
c) Choose an appropriate spotter. If you are lifting a heavy load, choose someone who can do the same.
d) If you are alone, use a power rack with safety supports that catch the bar just above your chest on the  bench or just below parallel on the squat.
e) Choose a weight you can actually handle. Even if you are feeling “strong” on a particular day doesn’t    mean you should try 30lbs. more than your previous best. Remember the tortoise and the hare here!
In Strength,
Brian