5 simple exercises to strengthen your shoulders
What's the story
The rotator cuff is a network of muscles and tendons that envelop the shoulder joint, ensuring the head of your upper arm bone is secure within the shallow socket of the shoulder. Strengthening this area is vital for athletes and non-athletes to preserve shoulder health and avoid injuries. This article provides a list of five effective exercises to bolster the strength and durability of your rotator cuff.
Press
Shoulder press for strength
The shoulder press is a classic exercise that works the rotator cuff and other shoulder muscles. Start with light weights to maintain good form and prevent injury. While standing or sitting, push the weights up from your shoulders until your arms are straight above your head, then lower them back down with control. Doing three sets of eight to 12 reps will increase your upper body strength over time.
Rotation
External rotation for flexibility
External rotation exercises are key to increasing flexibility and mobility in the rotator cuff. Holding a light dumbbell or resistance band, keep your elbow close to your side at a 90-degree angle, and rotate your forearm away from your body without moving your elbow. Performing three sets of 10 repetitions on each arm can significantly increase flexibility and decrease stiffness in the shoulders.
Stability
Internal rotation for stability
Just like external rotation, internal rotation exercises also aim at strengthening the rotator cuff muscles. Secure a resistance band to a door or grab a cable machine at low height, hold it with one hand and keep your elbow by your side at a 90-degree angle. Pull inward toward your body without moving your elbow outwards. Try for three sets of 10 repetitions on each side.
Isolation
Side-lying external rotation for isolation
This exercise specifically targets the rotator cuff by minimizing assistance from other muscle groups. Lie on your side with a light dumbbell in your top hand. Keep your elbow pinned to your side, bent at a 90 degrees angle. Rotate at the shoulder to lift the weight towards the ceiling, then lower it with control. Complete three sets of 10 reps on each arm.
Integration
High-to-low rows for integration
High-to-low rows target several muscle groups, including the rotator cuff, making them a great choice for upper body strength. Standing with a resistance band or cable machine positioned above, pull down towards your waist. Maintain one foot in front for stability. Focus on squeezing the shoulder blades together at the end of the movement before slowly releasing back to the starting position. Complete three sets of eight to 12 repetitions.