Sunday, December 21, 2014

Latissimus Dorsi

Latissimus Dorsi is one of my favorite muscles! The Latin name “Latis” means broad, and “Dorsi” comes from the Latin word dorsum, which means back. This huge muscle connects the arm to the lower back. When Latissimus contracts, it pulls your arm toward your side, allows you to reach behind you, it helps your trunk, ribcage and spine rotate and bend to that side, AND it helps you use your arms to push up from a chair. Wow, that is one very busy and important muscle!! You have likely used the “Lat Pull Down” machine at the gym to build strength and tone up this area. You can also work the Lats by doing Rows, Planks (on your side), pullups, bridges, dead-lifts, and all sorts of exercises with an Exercise Ball. If you have questions about whether any of these exercises are right for you, or if you want to be sure your Lats are working properly, I’d love to help you!


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