How Strong is Strong Enough?

A few years ago, I had a client tell me they shouldn't deadlift because it isn't good for your back. With the knowledge that she ran a dog care business, I asked her if she ever had to pick up any of the dogs she takes care of. She promptly answered yes, and that the largest dog she's had to pick up is 65 pounds. I respectfully explained to her that any time she picks up a squirming dog, she is at risk of injuring herself without the proper strength base.

How Strong is Strong Enough for YOU?

This question, is one that needs to be morphed to the needs of the individual. Gym equipment is built to put people in stable positions required to generate large amounts of force. Sadly, objects of daily life are not shaped like dumbbells or barbells, they are awkward and force us into weird positions to lift them. Think back to the heaviest, most awkward object you would ever have to lift and move. Now, I want you to triple this number as this is the minimum you should be able to lift in the gym to prevent injury.

Being Weak is a Risk Factor for Injury.

None of us hesitate to lift that awkwardly shaped couch into our new apartment while moving, but many of us shy away from a barbell loaded with an equivalent amount of weight. The fact is, if you don't practice lifting objects heavier than those you will lift in your life, you are on a train bound for injury. This doesn't mean you need to jump straight to the heaviest weight you would have to lift and start repping it out. Rather, slowly build yourself up, and train smart so you can live a longer, better life.

Remember, Consistency + Effort combined with intelligent training leads to improved performance.