Developing great shoulders through exercise
By Shannon Sutton
Got broad shoulders that can handle it all? Why not make them look more shapely and attractive? All it takes is exercise.
It’s a well-known fact that, generally speaking, people are living longer. Our life expectancy is increasing, and it is even more important to maintain a good quality of life. Activity levels and gym memberships are rising steadily. If you haven’t joined the crowd, maybe it is time to reconsider.
I am fortunate to have wonderful memories of fun and active times with my grandparents (my Grandma can still “out-shop” me!) A regular fitness program can help to avoid injury, prolong youth, prevent countless diseases and more.
The following exercises demonstrate just a few of the many shoulder exercises:
Begin by lying face down on a flat bench or exercise ball. Grasp a dumbbell in each hand, and raise your elbows to shoulder level, straight out from your shoulders. Slowly raise weight to ear level (like a goal post) and return to starting position. Repeat desired number of reps/sets.
Using a cable cross, adjust resistance to elbow level. Begin by standing with the cable to your left, handle in right hand and elbow at 90 degrees with your forearm across your abdomen. Slowly pull the weight about 90 degrees until your hand is in front of you. Hold for a count and repeat (both sides, of course!)
Standing in the same position, switch hands and take one step to your right (until tension is felt in the cable). Pull in the opposite direction as in Exercise #2 (left hand should be pulling the weight across abdomen to the right). Repeat.
Lateral Dumbell Raise
Gripping a lightweight dumbbell in each hand, (illustrated to the left) stand with feet at hips’ width. Slowly raise arms out laterally 45 – 90 degrees. Pause for a count, and lower back to starting position. Repeat.
In addition to an overall fitness program, keeping your shoulders healthy is so very important — just ask anyone recovering from a shoulder injury! A little hard work a couple of times a week can truly make a noticeable difference.
Shannon Sutton is an independent C.P.T. (Certified Personal Trainer). Her certifications include ISSA, NASM, APEX and Reebok. She has invested years in helping individuals reach health, fitness and wellness goals. Contact Sutton by phone at (210) 722-3962 or via E-mail at jssutton2003@yahoo.com.
