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Keep those shoulders down

Posted By: Vicki Raynor on 05/09/2011

After months of training, you’d think I would remember to keep my shoulders down when doing arm pulls. I’ve certainly heard my trainer, Mike Short say, “Keep those shoulders down.” - Geez!

Doesn’t he know that it’s easier to do if I lift my shoulders - just a little bit?  Yes he knows that, but he also knows to get the most out of every workout, I must “keep my shoulders down.”

Don’t Arch that Back
The other day I was working on a new exercise. I needed to keep my core tight while pushing the bar up with my legs, as high as I could.

Picture this, if you can: Down on all fours. Weight bar positioned in the arch of my one foot. Push up and back as far as I can. Try to push bar up really high.  All while pulling in my core muscles and not arching my back).  In order to do this effectively I needed to pull my stomach in and not arch my back.  When I did that, it worked!  I could feel my muscles working hard to get stronger. 

Squat down further
Squats!  Who invented those? No matter how many times I do them I seem to lose my form. "Squat deeper!”  “Keep that back straighter!” “Move back onto your heels!” That’s a lot to remember, good thing Short it there to remind me.

Bottom Line
Working with a trainer offer several benefits. My form is spot on, which means I have no risk of injury. Also, I execute the exercise to target the exact muscles I am focusing on. I have someone to push me, consistently. Not just during that hour, but outside of the gym too. I am given “outside” tasks to keep me motivated and focused on my goals.

Note: Fitness Together is now offering private group training in its Solon, Gates Mills and Rocky River locations. Join today with a friend. New members receive a $150 American Express card. For full details call 877.FIT.OHIO