I love to lift weights.
It helps me look good, it's healthy, it burns calories and fat, and it's just plain fun.
However it's also possible to get injured just like with any activity.
If new to weight lifting, certainly have someone show you how to do it safely and correctly, and make sure you have your doctor's permission.
Here are a few hints to help prevent injury.
1) Don't jerk or bounce.
You want to move those weights in smooth motions, both up and down.
Although an experienced lifter may occasionally do differently, for example in a "clean and jerk" Olympic weightlifting event, you shouldn't.
2) Warm up before lifting.
I usually warm up with a very few minutes on a treadmill followed by stretching.
3) Use proper form.
Do it right! If you don't know what the proper technique is for a particular exercise ask someone.
Too many people get injuries due to proper form - and this preventable! 4) Breathe.
Just do it, don't hold your breathe.
Sometimes you may find your body holding its breath especially when starting out, but eventually breathing during lifting becomes second nature.
5) Don't overtrain.
Our bodies grow when they're resting, not working out.
Everyone will have a different tolerance for weight lifting including necessary recovery periods between exercises.
For example, I find I can work each body part very hard, but then need at least 5 or more days to rest that body part.
Your mileage will vary, so learn what your body likes.
Weight lifting is addictive and healthy for men and women.
You can continue well into your latter years like my father who's lifting weights not at almost age 90! Follow these simple rules and use common sense to help prevent injury.