Nothing is more dangerous than lifting weights the wrong way. It can be damaging to your health. But there are a few ways you can get it right, and the first step is always to pay attention to simple rules of proper technique that can make you slimmer, stronger and healthier over all.

John Romaniello, trainer, author and founder of Roman Fitness Systems shows off the correct way to do an overhead dumbbell press.

The Faux Pas: "When a client attempts the overhead press, they generally wind up with a tremendous arch in the low back," says Romaniello. That arch is a dead giveaway that you're compensating with your spine to lift the weight above your head.



The Fix: "Tuck your tailbone underneath you, engaging the core" he instructs, "and press straight overhead." Squeezing the glutes can also help. If you're still arching, back down to a lighter weight you can comfortably lift with correct form and work up.