Lifting objects from the ground is an essential daily activity we all regularly perform. For many years, we used to believe lifting with spinal flexion could be a risk factor for lower back injuries and pain. Today, we know lifting with a flexed spine is not necessarily harmful, and there is no one way to […]
Exercise Science
Understanding Eccentric Muscle Contractions
Eccentric contractions are a type of muscle contraction in which the muscle-tendon complex lengthens and contracts at the same time. This type of contraction has several distinct traits distinguishing it from other contractions, potentially resulting in unique adaptations. Due to its particular physiological and mechanical characteristics, eccentric muscle work has garnered growing attention for rehabilitation […]
Rectus Abdominis Exercises
3 Exercises to Target the Rectus Abdominis Muscle The rectus abdominis is one of the four abdominal muscles located in the anterior abdominal region and running vertically along the midline of the abdomen, extending from the pubic bone to the sternum. The rectus abdominis is responsible for posterior pelvic tilt (PPT) and spine flexion. […]
Internal vs. External Focus in Resistance Training
In the realm of resistance training, the way you focus during exercise is crucial. It’s not just about what exercises you do but also about how you execute them. You can use two key types of cues in your training: internal and external. Grasping the nuances between internal and external cues and their impact on […]
How Exercise Influences Health and Well-Being
Scientists have long recognized the profound connection between physical activity and our overall well-being. The evidence is clear: movement is vital for our physical health and plays a crucial role in nurturing our mental and emotional states. As we delve into the intricate relationship between the mind, body, and soul, we find that exercise is […]
Unilateral Exercises in Training Program
When it comes to training programs, the emphasis often lies on bilateral exercises like squats, bench presses, or deadlifts. While these are undoubtedly effective, there’s another category of exercise that deserves your attention: unilateral exercises. These exercises, focusing on one side of the body at a time, are not just supplementary but essential for balanced […]
Building Muscles Without Weights? Yes, it is Possible!
Building muscles without weights might sound counterintuitive to many, but it’s entirely possible! Over the last few years, more individuals have opted for home workouts due to the COVID-19 pandemic, vacations, or limited gym access. Given this growing trend towards at-home training, understanding how to build muscle by effectively using only your body weight is […]
The Science Behind Suspension Exercises
Suspension (straps) exercises have gained immense popularity in recent years thanks to their ability to provide a full-body workout that enhances strength stability. Their compact size and user-friendly design make suspension exercise systems highly portable, which makes them a convenient option for a wide range of users, from seasoned athletes to those just starting their […]
Does maximizing EMG amplitude mean more muscle growth?
Understanding the intricate connection between muscle excitation and muscle development is vital for achieving peak physical fitness. This journey into muscle science often leads us to consider the remarkable technology known as Electromyography, or EMG. In this Muscle and Motion article, we’ll explore surface EMG and attempt to determine whether it is a reliable indicator […]
Pistol Squat
The challenges of the Pistol Squat and how to deal with them The pistol squat is a unique and intricate exercise, distinguished from the ingle-leg squat by its demands on strength, ankle mobility, and hamstring flexibility. This Muscle and Motion article delves into the proper technique for performing a pistol squat, provides an anatomical analysis […]