And now, time to round off the arms with a series of shoulder exercises. If you’ve missed the previous few posts, be sure to check out moves for strengthening both your biceps and your triceps as well.
The shoulders are comprised of several different smaller muscles, so there are a variety of moves that will shape the shoulders from different angles.
To get well-rounded, shapely shoulders consider incorporating these moves into your fitness routine:
1. Lateral Raises (dumbbells or tubing) -With palms facing hips, lift weights out to the sides (palms now facing down) no higher than shoulder height/parallel to the floor.
2. Front Raises (dumbbells or tubing) – Weights in hands, palms facing front/inner thighs. Lift arms parallel to floor, palms down as you rise. Focus on squeezing the core and not allowing momentum to take over this move.
3. Overhead Press – Arms 90 degrees with elbows straight out from shoulders/hands directly over elbows. Think football field goal posts. Press weights overhead with weights slightly forward of face.
4. Upright Row – Palms facing thighs, lead with elbows and pull hands up the body towards the chest.
5. Seated Bent-Over Reverse Fly – Sitting on a chair, bend at the waist, keeping spine long and core braced. With palms of hands facing each other and a small bend in the elbows, lift until arms are parallel to the floor (keeping upper body completely still).
A variety of exercises, each targeting different angles of the shoulder, that are sure to shape the arms. If you ever have questions about how to do any of the moves here, find me on social media or my site, http://www.everydayfaithandfitness.com and I’ll talk you through them!
Most importantly though, as we’re working through strengthening each of our different body parts, remember that the purpose is to be healthy and strong enough to do what God has put us here to do. While it’s tempting to strive for six-pack abs, or even a certain number of pounds lost, anything that takes our focus off of Him is all in vain.
Happy shoulder-strengthening! Until next time: Live well. Love life!
Everyday Faith + Fitness 