I've realized at the gym a lot of the exercises/reps I do are pushes, not pulls.

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   JustHowitSounds30posted 11 years ago

   I've realized at the gym a lot of the exercises/reps I do are pushes, not pulls. What to focus on?
   
   By pushes, I mean that I do mostly push-ups, shoulder presses, lunges, etc. I read something recently that said balancing the movements of push-pull will lead to more strength and better overall health. The article didn't suggest any of the pull exercises to do so I'd like to know what they are/which ones are favorites? Thank you!

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   SidKempposted 11 years ago

   For healthy, balanced muscle building, and to prevent injury, every push should be matched by an opposing pull. The key is to work opposing muscle groups. for the upper arms, biceps are built with a pull (lifting weight by bending the elbow) and triceps with a push (handling weight while extending the arm).
   
   Rowing is a very good balance of push andd pull for both legs and arms, as rowing machines put pressure in both directions.
   
   If working with free weights, be sure to move slowly and evenly on the lift and the return.
   
   It is probably a good idea to pay for one session with a trainer to help give you a balanced routine. For example, the weight to do on a push may not equal the weight on the opposing pull - balanced does not always mean equal.
   
   Be sure to also learn to develop a good core routine (torso and small muscles near the joints). Good core plus balanced push-pull equals safe, healthy workout routine.

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      JustHowitSounds30posted 11 years agoin reply to this

      Thank you very much, Sid--and I apologize for the delay in responding. Your explanation seems practical and makes sense to me.
      I'll consider a session w/a trainer, but I know my local YMCA is rather pricey for a college student!
      Thanks again.

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      SidKempposted 11 years agoin reply to this

      Often, if  you visit a gym and consider membership, they'll throw in one free session with a trainer. If not, take a look at Men's Health magazine on core routines and basic routines, as a good place to start.

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   jjnielposted 11 years ago

   What you do in a particular fitness program depends on your target - what part of your body would you wish to develop or how would you want it to look like.
   
   personal trainer signal hill -  http://www.myepicmodel.com/

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      JustHowitSounds30posted 11 years agoin reply to this

      Thanks for your comment, jjniel. I am working on developing some definition to my scrawny arms..we'll see how it goes!

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   GarrettHnatiukposted 9 years ago

   Both cardio and weight training should be focused on. Remember, the greater muscle you have, the easier it will likely be to trim down because your metabolic process speeds up.
   
   For cardio, change it out up with treadmill, elliptical, stair, swimming, etc. so you don't get bored and lose determination.
   
   As for strength training, focus on the fundamental movements. Squats, lunges, weight curls, bench presses, tricep muscles pressdowns, pushups, standing calf boosts, etc.

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