BACK & SHOULDERS

From tight T-shirts to evening gowns, a well developed back displays youth, beauty and strength. When working out, the muscles of the back are often neglected.

the primary function of the back is to raise and lower the shoulders and control the movements of the spine. These are big muscles that when properly conditioned can take a great deal of stress.

the variety of muscles that connect to the rib cage and vertebrae allow for an enormous amount of flexibility in bending, twisting and rotating the midsection. As you strengthen and firm the abdominal muscles it is important to also strengthen those of the back. Generally if one set of muscle is weak, so are the others.

Your back is controlled by there large groups of muscles. The Trapezius, on the upper part of the back. the Latissimus dorsi, on the sides, and the Thoracolumbar facia, on the lower part of the back. Together these muscle give that "V" shape which tapers down to a trim waistline.

Proper form and balance are essential to the success of any exercise program. This becomes particularly important when addressing the issues of the back because you must use your arms to aid in the performance of a back routine. Without proper form and balance the arms can end up doing a lot of the work, diminishing the effects of the exercise.

Stretching is also important in the back workout. Flexibility and strength are key ingredients in reducing back pain; and exercising the back on a regular basis helps prevent future injuries.

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