Tip of the Month

SYMMETRY (in regard to muscular balance and strength training): For optimal joint stability, musculoskeletal health and physical performance it is important to train opposing muscle groups equally. Would you just work out your right arm and neglect your left arm if you are weight lifting? Probably not. It is just as important to consider other opposing muscle groups: abdominals and lower back muscles, chest and upper back muscles, biceps and triceps are just a few examples.

A common area subject to muscular imbalance is the hip. Walking, running and stepping, as well as various strength exercises can cause the hip flexors (front of the hip) to tighten: tight hip flexors can cause alignment problems and lower back pain. Be sure to do exercises that will strengthen your hip extensors (back of the hip and butt) to help prevent this asymmetry. Stretching tight hip flexors will also help. If you are strength training, be sure you have a program that is balanced from top to bottom, left to right, and front to back!

Tip of the Month

Women Zone Fitness & Aerobics