Lifting weights, whether you do it for general fitness, to train
for sports or for competition, can cause serious injury or even
death. Follow these basic guidelines to lift weights more
safely. Find an instructor. Find an instructor who can help you
learn how to do the exercises correctly. Good technique is one
of the most important ways to avoid injury. A high school coach
or athletic trainer can help you. If a college is located in
your town, the weight coach for the varsity athletic teams may
be able to give you advice or recommend another instructor. The
National Strength and Conditioning Association may also be able
to recommend a qualified coach in your area. Advice from people
who have never learned good technique themselves, such as
parents, friends, coaches or other weight lifters, may not be
correct. Books can help, but nothing beats personal coaching.
With your teacher's help, decide on the goals of your weight-
training program. The goals of your training program will depend
on your age, physical