Sometimes great lessons come from the most unlikely sources.
Some guys get into the gym and have a chip on their shoulder. Whether they’re experienced or novices, they’re new to your gym and almost instantly they begin to rub people the wrong way. They have a clear air of superiority, like whatever it is you’re up to is just some light work for a beginner. Once they get to the rack they start packing on the weight with that smug expression, as if to say “You’re lifting that much bro?”
Who are these people we speak of? The ego lifter. The guys in the gym that have to prove how alpha they are by lifting an insane amount of weight and their absolute need to let everyone around them know it. People have a tendency to hate these walking personifications of pride. But there are a few things we could learn from an inexperienced ego lifter that could save your workout.
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Preventing Injury
Ego lifters, especially those not accustomed to lifting heavy weight, can be prone to injuries. This is a big lesson to learn from the ego lifter, never lift more than you can handle. You can find yourself nursing a terrible injury if you allow your ego to get in the way.
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The Importance of Form
Nothing reminds you more about adhering to form when an ego lifter pumps out their one rep max, with horrible technique, but looks more like the blob than cut out of granite. Besides, the point is to not only be strong, but ripped as well. Focusing on the mind muscle connection is more important than the actual weight.
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Sometimes Lighter is Better
Speaking of weight, we’ve all seen the ego lifter try and tackle a task that is nigh impossible to accomplish. This usually ends with injury and a shaking of the head by observers. Don’t worry if you can’t break your personal best. Lift lighter and stay healthy. Eventually if a bigger lift is your goal it’ll happen. It won’t happen if you push too hard and end up in the hospital.
Do ego lifters get under your skin? Let us know in the comments below and be sure to follow Generation Iron on Facebook and Twitter.
