You can add many years to your life expectancy if you follow a healthy diet and exercise program, including weight training. First you should understand some of the basic principals of lifting weights in order to get the maximum benefits.If you are ever unsure about something, ask a personal trainer, or your fitness consultant for advice.

The first principal is slow controlled movements. Whenever performing a weight lifting exercise use slow controlled movements. If you lift the weight quickly then  much of the work at the beginning of the exercise is done using momentum, not muscles. If you want to get the most out of your program, you don’t want momentum to assist you. You will also ensure that you do not move outside of your body’s natural range of motion.

The second important principal to follow is posture. Many beginners do not pay attention to their posture when beginning a weight training program. This is often because they want to lift more weight. If you contort your body, or swing your arms to lift more weight, you are using larger muscle groups to help you complete the exercise, and not getting the full benefit. When lifting weights, use your muscles the way they were designed to be used, and you will have a greatly reduced risk of injury.