Common Exercise Mistake #3: Never Using Full Range of Motion

If you have ever been to a gym, you have probably seen someone doing these exercises:

There is nothing inherently wrong about either of these exercises, but all too often theses exercises are done exclusively. In the first exercise the person does not raise his arms above level. The shoulder joints has one of the largest ranges of motion, yet all too often half of these motions are ignored.

In the common sit-up, the same problem exists in that there is no lumbar extension. The person stops at neutral. People are often afraid of goingg into extension, in fear of low back pain. Yet, if we never us this range of motion during exercise, it is guaranteed that you will become dysfunctional doing any movements in this range. Also, this results in an excessive amount of lumbar flexion, which is unfortunate, as this position is akin to someone slouching.

If you are doing these exercises, and have chronic shoulder pain or low back pain, please contact my office for a consultation at (616) 301-3000.