If you don't know your way around a weight room, heading to the gym can be intimidating -- and even dangerous. But paying attention to a few simple rules of proper technique can make you slimmer, stronger and healthier all over.
We asked John Romaniello, trainer, author and founder of Roman Fitness Systems and Equinox trainer and manager Rebecca Woll to show us what's what when it comes to strength training.
In the coming weeks, we'll be sharing their thoughts on the biggest mistakes we all make while building muscle, plus tips and tricks for better form. This week, we're perfecting the overhead triceps extension.
The Faux Pas:
"When a client attempts the overhead press, they generally wind up with a tremendous arch in the lower back," says Romaniello. It's also easy to let the elbow drift away from the head, which takes the focus away from the triceps.
The Fix:
"Instead, tuck your tailbone underneath you," says Romaniello, "engaging the core and pressing straight overhead." Keep the shoulders down and the elbows as close to the ears as possible.
Tell us how it goes in the comments below, and be sure to check back over the following weeks to fix your form on the row machine, the seated fly and more.
Check out more in our Fix Your Form series below:
Fix Your Form
Photos by Damon Dahlen, AOL
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