The workouts that do more harm than good

Gym-goers and fitness enthusiasts alike, have you ever heard the saying, "If it ain't broke, don't fix it"? Well, in this case, you might want to fix something that's not quite broken - your workout routine.

You may be surprised to learn that some exercises that were once touted as the ultimate health and fitness panacea have now been revealed to cause injury or have little effect on physical health and fitness compared to others. Yes, it's time to say goodbye to some of those classic moves and hello to a safer and more effective workout routine.

So, what workouts should you drop immediately? Let's take a look at a few exercises that have been debunked by science and the experts:

1. Crunches - The classic crunch has been around for ages and is a staple of many people's abs routine. However, crunches put a lot of strain on the neck and spine, which can lead to injury over time. Instead, try switching to more functional exercises like planks or Russian twists that work your abs and core without putting as much strain on your neck and back.

2. Lat Pulldowns Behind the Neck - This exercise is a no-no for anyone looking to protect their shoulders. Pulling the bar down behind the neck can cause rotator cuff injuries and impingements, so it's best to avoid this exercise altogether. Instead, try the seated row or pullups to target the same muscles without putting your shoulders at risk.

3. Upright Rows - This exercise is another one to watch out for if you're looking to protect your shoulders. Upright rows put a lot of stress on the rotator cuff and can cause injury, especially if you have tight shoulders to begin with. Instead, try lateral raises or front raises to target the same muscles without putting your shoulders at risk.

4. Behind the Head Tricep Extension - This exercise is another one that can cause shoulder injury, as it puts a lot of stress on the rotator cuff. Instead, try tricep extensions using a rope or a tricep bar, which put less stress on the shoulders and target the triceps more effectively.

5. Smith Machine Squats - The Smith machine is a fixture in many gyms, but using it for squats can be a recipe for disaster. The machine doesn't allow for natural movement, which can cause injury and limit your progress. Instead, try using a barbell or doing bodyweight squats to get the full benefits of this exercise.

6. Straight-Legged Deadlifts - This exercise can put a lot of strain on your lower back, which can lead to injury. Instead, try doing Romanian deadlifts, which are a safer and more effective alternative that work the same muscles without putting as much strain on your back.

So there you have it, folks! These are the workouts you should drop immediately if you want to protect your body and get the most out of your fitness routine. By making these simple changes, you'll be able to build a stronger, healthier body that can withstand the rigors of everyday life. So, go ahead, ditch those crunches and lat pulldowns, and get started on a safer and more effective workout routine today!

In conclusion, remember that it's always important to listen to your body and work with a fitness professional if you're not sure which exercises are right for you. By doing so, you'll be able to build a workout routine that is safe, effective, and tailored to your individual needs. So, go ahead, give your body the care and attention it deserves, but be careful and keep yourself up to date with all the latest science, because what’s good today might be outed as harmful tomorrow!