Fitness Tips

Building Strong Shoulders

By Dylan Roche

There’s a reason for the expression “You’re carrying a lot on your shoulders.” Because when you must carry a heavy load for an extended period, your shoulders are the part of your body that’s best up to the challenge. (Not that anyone ever wants to carry a heavy load for an extended period—but it’s good to know you’re capable if you have to!) continue on page 128

Strong shoulders are important for all kinds of daily activities, not only for lifting and carrying but also when you have to reach or pull. You use your shoulders in pretty much any athletic pursuit as well, particularly if you’re a swimmer, basketball player, or volleyball player, as all three of these sports require extensive, fast arm movement. Your shoulder joints can be prone to injury as you get older, but building and maintaining muscle around these joints will help prevent injury.

Shoulders also serve an important function in the way you carry your body throughout your day. Without strong shoulders, you’ll have trouble standing up straight with good posture. Weak shoulders, and the poor posture associated with them, can lead to back or neck pain and can even set you up for injury.

Moreover, having strong shoulders and good posture just makes you look better— and when you look better, you have more confidence in everything you do.