Why Should You Care About Your Shoulder Muscles?

The shoulder muscles are essential for a limitless range of upper body movements, providing both mobility and stability to the shoulder complex. These muscles work collaboratively as a complex system, which enables the upper extremity to be positioned in space, facilitating hand functions essential for daily activities.¹

Shoulder muscles are classified into different groups, each with unique functional responsibilities. These include the axioscapular and axioclavicular muscles which position the scapulothoracic and sternoclavicular joints; the scapulohumeral muscles which affect the glenohumeral joint; and the axiohumeral muscles that add power to the motions of the shoulder.¹

Shoulder muscles are critical for maintaining the shoulder’s functionality and preventing discomfort and injury. Weakness or impairments in any shoulder muscle can result in dysfunction, causing difficulty in performing tasks that involve raising the hand above the head or bearing weight on the upper extremities.^{1, 2}

Recommendations for training shoulder muscles:

1) Engage in light aerobic activity or use dynamic movements that target the shoulders, preparing them for more substantial exercise.

2) Incorporate stretches for the shoulders, such as the shoulder stretches mentioned above, into your daily routine to enhance mobility and prevent injuries.^2,3

3) Perform exercises that target the different muscles of the shoulder, such as overhead presses for the deltoids and rows for the scapular muscles, 2-3 times per week.^2,4

4) Gradually increase the intensity and complexity of exercises to continue challenging your muscles and improving strength.

5) End your shoulder workouts with stretching exercises to reduce muscle tension and enhance recovery.

Ensure correct form and technique to avoid unnecessary strain on the muscles and joints. Listen to your body and avoid pushing through pain, which could indicate potential injury.

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