Q&A for How to Lift Weights

Use dumbbells instead of a barbell. Use the same weights on both sides, gradually building up your left side to keep pace with the right, You should never use heavier weights on one side. Build your weaker side up to meet that of the stronger side.

If you are really having trouble gaining weight and you are working out enough that you experience muscle fatigue, protein supplements can help put on some muscle. Chocolate milk is recommended by some lifters as an easily available alternative to protein powder because it has the proper macronutrient (proteins, carbs, fat) balance for post workout recovery.

The 5x5 routine refers to the number of sets (5) and repetitions (5) of an exercise. For example, to do 5x5 bicep curls, start by doing 5 bicep curls, then rest. Repeat 4 more times for a total of 5 times. The total number of bicep curls would be 5x5 which equals 25 repetitions.

Dumbbells, body weight exercises, resistance bands and some know-how are all you need for a great 'at-home' weight training workout.

Lifting weights means performing different movement patterns usually while holding, pushing or pulling heavy objects, such as a barbell or dumbbells.

Lifting weights helps with weight loss in several ways, but mainly, muscle mass burns calories at rest. The more muscle you have, the more calories your body burns naturally.

Absolutely. It is perfectly normal for someone the age of 16 to lift weights.

Yes, these can help add muscle bulk.

Usually you are too late at 20. However, if you find a good coach and really buckle down for the next 3 years, you might have a shot.

There is no optimal age, some start lifting at age six, some at age 27. Start when you're ready.

A warm-up is supposed to get your blood flowing and get oxygen going to your muscles. Your heart shouldn't be beating out of your chest, but you should just be breaking a sweat. As soon as you've got a sweat worked up, go to the weights. Waiting to cool down after warming up doesn't make sense.

No, use the same weight. If you can't finish with the weight you started out with, then go to a lower weight. It's better to finish a set with a lower weight than to give up completely.

Protein in the form of beans, peas and lentils are good. I'm vegan and straight after my workout I eat these. Also, have nuts and seed snacks with you for after training.

If you are just starting out lifting use an amount of weight that you can lift for 12 repetitions. When you get comfortable doing 12 reps at that weight, move on to the next weight level and keep doing that until you reach your goal.

It doesn't take long to learn most of these exercises. Start slow with low weight, working on your technique, then gradually increase. If you are concerned about injury, have a trusted friend or trainer experienced in weight lifting spot you, give you advice, and critique your form.

No. After you lift, you should perform a cool down routine. This is the best time for stretching just like cardio is the best warm-up.

Talk to your doctor and find a qualified trainer who has experience working with people your age in the gym. A good starting weight will depend on your physical condition and medical history. It's always best to smart small and work your way up to a heavier weight.

At that age, your body has not fully developed. Do not to lift heavy weight, if any at all. If you do decide to lift weights, make sure you lift under your body weight. If you find yourself straining or struggling, you are doing way too much. The best way for kids your age to get stronger are exercises that do not require weight, such as push ups.

The Men's Olympic Volleyball Team takes about 10 minutes to stretch all pertinent muscles groups including hip flexors, hamstrings, claves, glutes, quads, adductors/groin, abdomen, low back and shoulders with extra focus on individual problematic areas after each practice and every game.

Don't try to lift anything too heavy, just try out some different weights and see which you can lift best for 10-12 reps without overdoing it.

No, that's an old wives' tale.

Yes and no. Some variations of the dead lift require the legs to be locked. Some other exercises require locked legs.

Never skip leg day. Have one day in the week where you do a ton of leg exercises; mix it up, vary, try new things. But do them. Exercising your legs will make them stronger. If you do squats slowly, for example, you build muscle volume as well as strength; do them quickly and you build more strength and less volume. So just do a lot of leg exercises: squats, lunges, Bulgarian squats, rope skipping, burpees, etc.

You can start lifting weights whenever you feel comfortable doing it. People starting lifting weights at the age of 6, while others at the age of 30.

Lifting weights helps you build muscle and burn calories. It keeps your heart, mind, and body healthy as well.

Cardio is good for the short-term losing weight, but lifting is better in the long-term.

Give your muscles a period of time before exercising and lifting again; it's important not to strain your body.

Lift using your legs instead of your back, and always lift with a spotter for safety.

You should probably see a doctor to rule out any injuries or other medical causes for the pain. In the meantime, rest the muscles as much as you can.

Consult your doctor for further information about your limitations post-surgery.