proper form ? heavy weight ?

[five8]

I've heard the the best way to increase muscle mass is to really push yourself and lift heavy. The problem is, that when i lift heavy i sacrifice using proper form. i dont wanna be like my friends that " swing " anymore. Should i lower the amount of weight to execute proper form, or use heavy weight and lower my reps and sets ? i usually do 3 sets of 8.

 

[prophet]

how about heavy weight (meaning weight for low reps) and proper form? you can do both.. if the forms not proper, go lighter

 

[gr81]

it is called progressive weight training for a reason, if you always stay at the same weight you will never progress. You must push yourself forward in your training while staying smart with your form

 

[Mudge]

Originally posted by prophet
how about heavy weight (meaning weight for low reps) and proper form? you can do both.. if the forms not proper, go lighter

Exactly. However, sometimes SOME cheating is advocated, now if people point and laugh at you then you are going way, way too far.

 

[gopro]

The term "heavy" in bodybuilding should not mean "lifting what you or others perceive to be heavy weights," but what YOU can lift STRICTLY for 4-6 good reps. Think of heavy, medium, or light in terms of how many good reps a given weight allows you.

4-6: heavy
7-12: medium
13-20: light

 

[ponyboy]

Good point GP...we always tell people to check their ego at the door. Your body doesn't know how much you are lifting, it responds to progressive increases in resistance. I lift a lot less than people think I can because I'm always focused on good form...I'd rather save myself from injury .