By: Jon Osumi

Resistance training is a form of physical stress.  We all know that during times of stress, our shoulders have the tendency to shrug up to our ears.  While this is a typical reaction to stress as a 'fight or flight' response, it is not an anatomically correct posture.  Shrugging the shoulders creates an imbalance between the neck and shoulder muscles which can lead to discomfort and possibly muscle strains. 

The more often our shoulders shrug, the easier it is for them to return to that shrugging position in the future with less conscious effort.  In a worst case scenario, the shoulders stay shrugged, even when relaxed.  Exercise, and more specifically, strength training is a great way to train the shoulders to stay down in a neutral position.  Initially, lowering the amount of resistance used might be the best way to start training this posture, and only increase the weight when this control can be maintained. 

Mirrors will be your friend in determining if the shoulders are remaining in a neutral position.  Being conscious of this posture will prevent/reduce/eliminate stiff necks and upper back issues!

 
Jon Osumi

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