Help a fellow gym rat push more weight – and rescue him if he can’t. This is the 5 step guide to being the best gym bro and buddy a guy could wish for.
Related: Looser Hips = Bigger Lifts, Here Are The 4 Moves To Help You Unlock Peak Performance
And if you’ve got a gym buddy who might benefit from learning how to be a better spotter. Just send him this link. It will make your gym sessions a whole lot safer and productive.
1. Assess The Lift
You don’t need to be able to lift the entire load – you just need to help him re-rack the bar if he struggles. Uncomfortable with the weight? Politely decline or you both
may risk injury.
2. Know His Plan
Ask his rep count and if he wants a lift-off from the rack – that is, help with the initial placement. Knowing both will make for a smoother, safer effort.
Related: 6 Mistakes You Make When Deadlifting That Are Screwing Up Your Back
3. Stand Strong
Place your feet about shoulder-width apart behind the lifter’s shoulders. Find a sturdy, comfortable stance that lets you reach the bar without having
to bend your back.
4. Lift-Off!
If he wants a lift, agree on a countdown and then, at the end of the count, use a comfortable grip to gently guide the bar to his preferred starting position. Don’t throw or jerk the weight; that can put strain on his stabilising muscles and shoulder joints.
Related: Big Lifts Helped Footballer Rio Ferdinand Pack on 11kg Of Lean Muscle, Post-Retirement
5. Spot Smart
Stay focused and watch his reps. Allow the lifter to struggle – to a point. If it looks like he won’t complete the lift, or the bar starts moving downwards, place your hands back on the bar and gently guide it, lifting with your legs, back onto the rack.
