Warm up the right way

Whatever you’re planning to do at the gym today, make sure your body is geared up for it, says our resident fitness expert, Lisa Raleigh…

Warm up the right way. If you’re warming up for a strength session, give the treadmill a skip. A warm up that targets the muscles you’ll be using is far more effective. Run through a shortened version of your workout, using very light weights or no weight.

Adjusting your squatting technique can save your spine. Rest the bar so that as much of it as possible is touching your shoulders. Holding it only on your lower neck causes the entire weight to compress your spine, which can lead to spinal and muscle injuries.

Get smart when washing dirty gym clothes. Throw them into a mesh bag after every workout, then knot the bag and stick it straight into the washing machine at the end of the week. You'll always know where your favorite workout shirts are, and you won't have to touch your sweat socks when they're fully ripe.

When you’re running, your belly should rise as you inhale. Taking in the maximum amount of oxygen will mean better performance each time you run.

Tailor your squats to match your goals. Pushing from your toes when squatting or doing leg presses will work your quads more. Pushing from your heels will work your hamstrings and glutes.

 Catch Lisa Raleigh on Wellness in the WorkZone every day, Monday to Friday