If you are the average gym goer, you know the shoulder press, shoulder raises, and a handful of other useful shoulder exercises. However, some of the most important shoulder exercises are usually skipped. These are imperative because they keep the rotation of the shoulder joint healthy. Without it you wouldn’t be able to twist, or rotate your arm, an action that is VERY important to daily life and muscle health.
The Rotator Cuff – Shoulder Joint
The rotator cuff defines the health of the shoulder. It’s made up of 4 muscles (seen below). If even one of these muscles is unhappy or weak, it can cause pain, and inflammation that can last for months (if not treated).
Rotator Cuff Exercises
External Rotation With Band
External Shoulder Rotation With A dumbbell
Internal Rotation – Rotator Cuff
The exercises in the video give you a good visual for each rotation that’s important to the health of the rotator cuff. The towel is important so that you don’t pinch the nerves running through the shoulder joint which could lead to inflammation. I would recommend doing this at least once a week if not 2 times a week.
Trainer tip: It’s not about weight! These exercises are about strengthening but not about how much weight you can lift. Slowly increase the weight and resistance. No more then 10% increase per 1 – 2 weeks
If you know someone that lifts on a regular basis or sits at a desk day in and day out, share these shoulder exercises with them! Sharing is caring and fitness should be contagious!
“We love helping you, one tip at a time.”
Adria
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