Doing exercise is an integral part of leading a healthy lifestyle. It helps with reducing stress levels, weight loss and general well being.

Exercising incorrectly can, however, often lead to negative results. It is, therefore, of great benefit to you that you learn about some common training mistakes and you can in turn also protect yourself in case of injuries, by taking out an appropriate insurance package.

Some factors to take into account to avoid injury are the following:

1. Overworking yourself

Know your limits. Don’t make use of a machine or exercise form which will badly impact on an injured part of your body. Also make sure not to work out for longer than your body can handle.

When your body is tired and overworked, it is much more likely to receive an injury. Pushing yourself to exercise when you’re in pain won’t make you stronger or more fit; only irritated and in more pain.

This also counts for giving muscle groups a break: +-72 hours is the recommended time span needed to give body areas a rest.

2. Sticking to the same routine

Sticking to one routine for years is not only unhealthy for your body, but also your mind. Your muscle groups get used to this exercise and have no way of excelling. And your mind can get stuck in a boredom rut, when you do the same thing over and over again.

3. Copying others

What works for you might not work for others, and vice versa.

A man who trains regularly and weighs 120kg can do a lot more reps than a beginner who weighs 60kg. Don’t try copying anyone else in any way. If someone tells you to do what they do, rather walk away if you are unsure and have any doubts about it. Copying someone else’s gym regime can lead to an injury and frustration.

4. Not squatting properly

Not maintaining the natural curvature of the spine is one of main reasons why people injure themselves when squatting. A proper squat is about the hamstrings coming into contact with the calves. Keep track of your movements, in order to know when a move is hurtful for you and when it works.

5. Conditioning exercises

If you’re going to weight lift, limit running or doing conditioning exercises at the same time. This can wear your body out, run your energy levels dry and simply make you hate working out. Stick to weight lifting during one session; don’t try pack everything into one workout.

6. Not knowing your body

Certain exercises will have the opposite effect of what you want to achieve. Depending on your body type, condition and shape, you might be damaging your chances of becoming slim, fit or muscular. Know your BMI, body fat percentage and other important factors in order to get on the right exercise path for you.