How to start weightlifting, a beginner’s guide

Sign up to our free Living Well email for advice on living a happier, healthier and longer life Live your life healthier and happier with our free weekly Living Well newsletter Live your life healthier and happier with our free weekly Living Well newsletter SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Getting started If you’re completely new to weightlifting, Cowan advises that you begin with lighter weights, master the correct form and gradually increase the weight as you become more comfortable. This helps in mastering proper form and technique before progressing to heavier weights or more technical pieces of equipment that require a foundation of technique and strength – it seems obvious but lighter weights reduce the risk of injury while building strength and confidence.” Keeping it simple is key, Mulcahy says, adding that you should “look at progressively overloading on every movement through increasing weight, control or repetitions every week to two weeks.” How often should you be weightlifting? “I personally use the adidas powerlifting 5 weightlifting shoes that provide a value for money, good quality weightlifting shoe.” open image in gallery These Adidas shoes will support your feet when weightlifting If you prefer to workout at home, our fitness writer loved this Mirafit 10kg dumbbell weight set in our best home gym equipment guide, which is a great set for beginners. open image in gallery This portable weights set is perfect for working out at home While a bench isn’t essential, it can certainly make things more comfortable for lifting weights, our tester also found when using the Mirafit folding weight bench.