1. Strive for balance

Tread the line between challenging and do-able. In other words, work it out without burning out. A good rule of thumb: start with a sets of eight to 12 reps. If you can manage without too much difficulty and are beginning to feel the burn, you’re on the right track. And remember, no matter how tempted you are to break proper form—don’t. Leaning back won’t help you lift, and stopping short on a deadlift cheats no one but you.