Treadmills

If you look around the gym at the cardio machines, you will notice at least one person with a death grip on the rails of the treadmill. Hanging on for dear life and panting means the machine is set at too high a speed. Using the treadmill like this can cause spinal and shoulder injuries. The machine speed shouldn't be so high that users have to hang on. Focus on good form. If holding onto the rails is necessary, periodically let one arm swing freely. Then alternate. By not holding on, the core is strengthened.

No matter what your mode of exercise, even “safe” exercises could cause injury if done improperly. Before starting any exercise routine, check with a doctor to ensure that a little physical stress is OK. And remember, exercise isn’t punishment – it's essential to mental and physical wellbeing.