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Shoulder Injuries in Bodybuilding

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Shoulders are often injured while performing exercises for building muscle mass. With the aim to fully develop the deltoid muscle, bodybuilders periodically varied movements that increase the risk of injury.
Deep in the shoulder joints, there are small muscles that work exclusively on biomechanics. They do not resist heavy standing or decline bench presses.

They have minimal growth potential. Bundles of these muscles can easily get hurt. In addition, during exercise, these muscles rub against bone blade appendage. Hence, this causes extreme pain and inflammation. Many experienced bodybuilders live for years on analgesics. However, sports medicine knows how to prevent injuries rotators.

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Our shoulder joints have a high degree of freedom in all three planes. If we compare with the hip, both perform the same function of the joint - control the movement of the limbs. As you've just seen, each in their own way. Limited mobility of the hip joint is not accidental. It is a condition of its strength. The mobility of the shoulder joints obtained at the cost of their complex costing. But all that is complex can be easily broken.

As we said shoulder injury is the most common in bodybuilding. Moreover, most of the injuries affect a group of four small muscles, hidden deep in the shoulder joint. They are called the rotator-cuff of shoulder muscles.

These muscles are not able to develop a sufficient force for the beach bar. However, their role is important. Rotator- cuff muscles are an extra insurance. They have a strong foundation, as they should not break away from the blades, even under enormous loads. The upper tendons of muscles are reduced practically to a point. This hardly strengthens the link between them.

You have to know that any movement of the hands is accompanied by a reflex contraction of the muscle-rotators. They become shorter and more press in the humerus in response groove joint. Thus, rotation of the hands is less dangerous as the joint increase the strength.

There are many factors that may cause shoulder injuries. Most common of them being the following: the excess burden on the shoulders, genetic defects shoulder joints, old injuries and incorrect technique of exercise execution.

When there is a pain in the shoulder, the cause is difficult to understand even for an expert. Obviously, a doctor can help with special techniques to accurately diagnose the injury-rotators muscles, but to unravel its nature is possible only during a long and expensive test using the methods of functional diagnostics.

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According to sports professionals, shoulder pain is most common among athletes with experience. This happens because of decrease of free space under the acromion shoot. As a result, the muscles and their tendons begin to rub against each other, causing pain.

Another cause of pain is tendonitis. These are inflammation of the tendons, muscles rotators. Usually, they occur in microdamage places caused by too much tension of tendons or friction on the hard tissues of the joint.

Another disease associated with pain is called bursitis. This is an acute or chronic inflammation of the so-called bursa. Bursa is located under the muscle-tendon rotator, passing over the acromion ridge blade. It should prevent the ridge crest to cut tendon. Excessive pressure on the bursa leads to further damage and inflammation.

There are cases when pain is caused by a partial rupture of the muscle-rotators. All the causes of pain, except the last, seem insignificant. There are many people who think that this is an inflammation, nothing serious and do not pay attention to it, continuing exercising even they feel pain. They take analgesic and continue training. In this case, the inflammation worse, and the pain will increase.

Since the new load does not give the source of inflammation to heal, it becomes chronic. Pain disappear, then occurs again. The worst thing is that chronic inflammation is practically impossible to treat using drugs, although at the beginning you can help a simple aspirin or ibuprofen tablet.

It is very important to say that doctors categorically prohibit to exercise when you feel pain in your shoulder. The fact is that the inflammation weakens tendon tissue. So the next training on analgesics can turn into a tragedy: inflammation of the tendon may tear.

If you suddenly feel a pain in the shoulder, training should be immediately stopped. It is highly recommended do not do any exercises that concern the area of injury during two weeks. There are some quick measures that have to be taken in case of shoulder injuries.

First of them is about applying a cold pack on the area of injuries. Do this procedure in the first 2-3 days after you get injured for 20 minutes. Applying cold will successfully fight inflammation. Take medications. It is not only about taken a drug that relieves pain, but drugs that fight inflammation too.

These include drugs from the group of nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory analgesics. In particular, ibuprofen and its analogs, and naproxen. Remember that any drug has side effects. So take ibuprofen or naproxen strictly following the instructions.

Take a pause from your training. The duration of the break depends on the severity of the injury. Sometimes the pain is significantly reduced after 3-4 days of rest. Complete rejection of movements that bother injured shoulder is one of the most effective methods of treatment. Why so? Because the edges of the wound have to be pressed tightly against so the wound starts healing. In case of doing stretching movements, the wound will not be able to heal and will continue to bleed.

The same situation is in case of traumatized muscle-rotators. Immediately after the injury molecular fragments of the destroyed tissue get into the bloodstream and signal the brain about the occurred injury. Brain immediately starts the healing process. In the area of injury rush dozens of enzymes, hormone compounds, blood cells and stem cells. As you see body struggle with the disease by itself.
But if after a week the pain is still acute, then amateur treatment have to be interrupted and you have to do a visit to your physician.

Perform exercise for rotator muscles. Daily stretching and special exercises will keep you away from getting your shoulders injured again. Stretching will make tendons-rotation elastic and less susceptible to rupture. Performing special exercises will help to increase the force of rotators. Their resistance to the load increase, thus the risk of traumatic sprains is greatly reduced.

Keep in mind that once the pain from your shoulder disappears you do not have to come back to the old working weights. Why? because the re-injury will not make you feel pain suddenly. Pain comes late in the evening or the next day. So first try the lightweight and see what happens. If the pain does not appear tomorrow, add some more weight to your training.

It’s true that it will take time to get some progress, but it is guaranteed to lead you to a full recovery. It makes no sense hurry up to your old weights, because injury which is not healed with time pass into a chronic, and this is something you will never want to happen to you.  In order to prevent strengthen the muscle-rotators.

In order to avoid getting your shoulder injured were developed some great exercises designed to strengthen the muscles and joints. Include these exercises in your training twice a week and you will prepare an excellent base for building muscle definition with no danger of getting injured your shoulders.

One of these set of exercise is called "The Wall". Perform it this way: press your heels, buttocks, shoulders and head to the wall. The hands should be raised up, bent at the elbows and also pressed the wall.

Exercise consist in the act that staying pressed tagainstthe wall, you should raise up your hands as much as possible. As soon as you reached the maximum point, the elbows should be gradually lowered as low as possible. It will be enough to perform three reps about 15 seconds each of them.

Must Read: Your Blueprint For Building Bigger Shoulders

Shoulder Shrugs Exercise

The starting position is the same as in case of push-ups, your head should be in the line with the spine. Keeping the original position of the body you have to try to reduce the blade as much as possible, and then relax the shoulders, allowing them to sag. Three repetition about 15 seconds is enough for this type of exercise.

Another exercise is called Arnold press alternatives. For this exercise, you will need to use dumbbells. Standing position, legs apart at shoulder width, toes apart, dumbbells held in front of chest, palms facing back.

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Performed bench with one hand while turning the brush. At the maximum point of benching, palm should be facing forward. Then, carrying traffic in the opposite order, dumbbell should return to its original position. The same must be run with the other hand. In this case, perform three reps for 12 seconds.

Staggered-Stance Lateral Raise Exercise

In the position of standing erect, hold the dumbbells at hip level. Do a step forward and from this position lift dumbbells with your hands. The maximum lifting point is at shoulder level, then let your hands back to the starting position. Special attention must be given to the preservation of balance. Perform three reps about 12 seconds.

Squat with Dumbbells Exercise

Follow this position: feet apart at shoulder-width, toes should be diluted, hands straight with dumbbells at hip level. Exercise is carried out in several stages, first to raise the dumbbells up to shoulder level, then slowly squat is performed, the line thighs should be parallel to the floor line.

Then you need to straighten up, with all the bells also held at shoulder level. Then with an effort to squeeze the dumbbells straight arms, lower their shoulders and then return to the starting position (at the hips). Three reps for 12 seconds is enough for this type of exercise.

Must Read: Goblet Squats For Increasing Lower Body Flexibility And Strength

As you see there are ways to prevent the injury of shoulders. One of them is to build stronger rotator cuff muscles and to avoid overworking shoulder with big weights. A good warming up before getting into training is another great advice that will keep you away from any injuries. And do not forget about the right technique of execution of each exercise. Since a proper execution minimizes the risks of injuries.


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Bodybuilding

Chia Seeds in A Bodybuilder’s Diet: An Expert’s Advice

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Chia seeds are a nutrient-dense food, offering protein, fiber, healthy fats, and various vitamins and minerals. While they're not a direct source of muscle-building protein like meat or eggs, they can complement a balanced diet by providing essential nutrients important for overall health, which indirectly supports muscle development when combined with a proper exercise routine. However, solely relying on chia seeds for building muscle mass might not be sufficient—you'd likely need a variety of protein sources along with a consistent workout regimen for optimal muscle growth.

The seeds have a fascinating history. They were a staple in the diets of the Aztecs and Mayans, who valued them for their energy-boosting properties. "Chia" even means "strength" in Mayan. They were used by ancient warriors as a source of sustainable energy. These tiny seeds gained modern popularity due to their nutritional value, high fiber, omega-3 fatty acids, and versatility in various dishes.

Growing Popularity

Chia seeds are popular among bodybuilders due to their high protein and omega-3 fatty acid content. They provide a good source of nutrients, help in muscle repair, and offer sustained energy throughout workouts. Additionally, their high fiber content can aid in digestion and help manage hunger, which can be beneficial for those trying to maintain a specific diet while building muscle.

Where to Buy Chia Seeds for Your Bodybuilding Diet

These are commonly available in various grocery stores, health food stores, and even online marketplaces like Amazon or specialty health websites. You can check your local supermarkets, health food stores, or browse online to purchase chia seeds for your bodybuilding diet. Many health-focused stores offer bulk options, which can be more cost-effective if you plan to use them regularly in your diet.

You can also try purchasing the seeds from popular online retailers like Walmart, or health food stores such as Whole Foods Market, Thrive Market, or Vitacost. There are also specialty health stores like iHerb or The Vitamin Shoppe that carry chia seeds.

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Preparation

These magical seeds can be quite versatile in the kitchen! Here are a few methods you can try:

After cooking it, you can serve them in various ways. You might consider adding them to yogurt, smoothies, oatmeal, or salads for an added nutritional boost. You can also use them in baking as an egg substitute or make a chia pudding by mixing them with your choice of liquid (like almond milk) and allowing them to gel.

What A bodybuilder Gets From the Magical Seeds

Rich in Protein

Chia seeds are a great source of plant-based protein, containing roughly 4.7 grams of protein per ounce. For bodybuilders, their protein content is beneficial for muscle repair and growth.

Omega-3 Fatty Acids

They are an excellent source of omega-3 fatty acids, particularly alpha-linolenic acid (ALA). These healthy fats support heart health, reduce inflammation, and aid in muscle recovery, all beneficial for bodybuilders. The omega-3s in chia seeds can also help maintain joint health, enhance stamina, and assist in managing weight. Integrating chia seeds into a balanced diet can contribute to overall well-being and support a bodybuilder's goals.

Fiber Content

They contain a high amount of soluble and insoluble fiber, with about 10 grams of fiber in a 1-ounce (28-gram) serving.

Helps with digestion and promotes a feeling of fullness, aiding in weight management.

Antioxidants

The seeds contain antioxidants like flavonoids and phenolic compounds that help combat oxidative stress in the body, potentially reducing the risk of chronic diseases. These antioxidants can help protect cells from damage caused by free radicals. Including chia seeds in your diet can contribute to overall health and well-being due to their antioxidant properties. Fight off free radicals that can damage cells post-workout with these magical seeds.

Minerals

They contain calcium, phosphorus, magnesium, and manganese, contributing to bone health, energy metabolism, and antioxidant activity. These minerals support various bodily functions, from maintaining strong bones to aiding muscle function and energy production.

Hydration

When soaked, they form a gel that retains water, aiding in maintaining hydration during workouts.

What Are The Disadvantages of Overconsuming Chia Seeds

Chia seeds can be beneficial for bodybuilders due to their nutrient content, but overconsumption might cause gastrointestinal issues or interfere with hydration.

They're high in fiber, so eating too many could cause digestive problems like bloating or diarrhea. Plus, their omega-3 fatty acids might interact with certain medications or cause allergic reactions in some people. Moderation is key!

Overall

In summary, Chia seeds are a powerhouse for bodybuilders! They offer a high protein content, essential for muscle repair and growth. Additionally, they're packed with omega-3 fatty acids for reducing inflammation and providing sustained energy during workouts. Their fiber content aids in digestion and helps maintain a steady release of energy. Plus, their versatility allows for easy incorporation into shakes, smoothies, or as a topping for meals, making them a convenient addition to a bodybuilder's diet.

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Bodybuilding

Cold Immersion Therapy for Recovery

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Ice immersion therapy, also known as cold immersion or cryotherapy, is a recovery technique that some bodybuilders use to reduce muscle soreness and inflammation after intense workouts.

Types of Cold Immersion Therapy

Ice immersion techniques can benefit bodybuilders as they may help reduce inflammation, promote recovery, and improve overall muscle performance. Here are some types of brutal immersion methods suitable for bodybuilders:
1. Cold Water Baths: Submerging yourself in a cold water bath or an ice bath can help reduce muscle soreness and inflammation after intense workouts. Water temperatures typically range from 50°F (10°C) to 59°F (15°C).
2. Cryotherapy Chambers: Cryotherapy involves standing in a cryotherapy chamber briefly while being exposed to frigid temperatures, often around -220°F (-140°C). This can rapidly reduce muscle soreness and improve recovery.
3. Cold Showers: Cold showers are a more accessible and convenient option for bodybuilders. You can alternate between hot and cold water during your shower or finish with a brief blast of cold water to help with muscle recovery.
4. Contrast Baths: Contrast baths involve alternating between hot and cold water immersion. This can enhance circulation, reduce muscle soreness, and promote recovery. For bodybuilders, it's essential to focus on the complex phase.
5. Ice Packs or Ice Massage: Ice packs or massages on specific muscle groups can help target sore areas. This can be particularly useful for localised muscle soreness and injuries.
6. Localized Cryotherapy: Some facilities offer localised cryotherapy using devices that deliver frigid temperatures to specific muscle groups, which can help reduce inflammation and soreness in targeted areas.

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Cold Immersion Procedure

Here's an essential procedure for ice immersion therapy:
1. Prepare the equipment:
◦ Fill a bathtub or container with cold water. The temperature can vary, but it's typically between 50°F (10°C) and 59°F (15°C). You can use ice or cold water from the tap.
◦ Have a timer or stopwatch ready to monitor the duration of the immersion.
2. Dress appropriately:
◦ Wear minimal clothing to ensure direct contact between your skin and the cold water. Swimsuits or shorts are often suitable.
3. Pre-immersion activities:
◦ Consider light physical activity or stretching to warm your muscles and increase blood flow. This can help prevent shock when you enter the cold water.
4. Immersion:
◦ Slowly enter the cold water, starting with your feet and gradually submerging your entire body. Try to relax and control your breathing.
5. Immersion duration:
◦ The optimal duration can vary, but common recommendations range from 10 seconds to 20 minutes. Beginners should start with shorter durations and gradually increase as they become accustomed to the cold.
6. Monitor your body:
◦ Pay attention to your body's response. Shivering is a normal reaction to the cold, but if you experience severe discomfort or any signs of hypothermia (extreme shivering, confusion, or numbness), exit the water immediately.
7. After immersion:
When the immersion time is up, slowly exit the cold water. Dry off and warm up using towels, warm clothing, or a blanket. Some people find it beneficial to engage in light exercise or stretching after ice immersion.

What You Need for An Ice Immersion

Cold immersion, such as cold water swimming or ice baths, requires some equipment to ensure safety and comfort. Here are some essential items:
1. Wetsuit or Drysuit: A good-quality wetsuit or drysuit is essential to keep your body insulated in cold water.
2. Neoprene Boots and Gloves: These help keep your extremities warm and protected.
3. Swim Cap: A neoprene swim cap can help keep your head warm and reduce heat loss.
4. Thermometer: A water thermometer can help you monitor water temperature and ensure it's safe for your cold immersion.
5. Safety Equipment: In case of emergencies, it's a good idea to have a safety float or buoy, as well as someone watching over you.
6. Warm Clothing: Have warm, dry clothes ready after cold immersion to avoid post-immersion cooling.
7. Timer or Watch: To keep track of your immersion time, as prolonged exposure to cold water can be dangerous.
8. Medical Kit: Just in case, it's wise to have a basic first aid kit nearby.

How Bodybuilders Gain from Cold Immersion Therapy

Cold water immersion therapy, such as ice baths or cold water immersion, can offer several potential benefits to bodybuilders:
Reduced Muscle Inflammation: Cold immersion can help reduce muscle inflammation and soreness, potentially speeding up recovery after intense workouts.

Improved Circulation

Cold exposure can promote blood vessel constriction and dilation, enhancing muscle circulation and nutrient delivery.

Enhanced Recovery

Cold therapy may help bodybuilders recover faster between training sessions, allowing for more frequent and productive workouts.

Pain Relief

Ice immersion can temporarily relieve muscle aches and joint discomfort associated with intense training.

Enhanced Endurance

Some athletes use cold therapy to improve endurance and tolerance to cold, which can be advantageous in certain sports.

Mental Toughness

Regular exposure to cold can help build mental resilience and discipline, which can be valuable for maintaining a consistent training regimen.

Caution During Cold Immersion

Cold immersion, such as cold or ice baths, can have potential risks and should be done cautiously. Here are some important considerations:

Gradual Exposure

Start with shorter periods of immersion and gradually increase the time to allow your body to adapt to the cold.

Monitor Temperature

Ensure the water temperature is not dangerously cold. Icy water can lead to hypothermia.

Know Your Limits

Pay attention to your body's signals. If you start shivering uncontrollably or feel intense discomfort, it's time to exit the cold water.

Supervision

If possible, have someone present to assist you or call for help if needed.

Pre-existing Conditions

If you have any medical conditions or are taking medication, consult a healthcare professional before attempting cold immersion.

Warm-Up and Warm Clothing

Warm up before immersing in cold water, and have warm clothing and blankets ready after the immersion.

Hydration and Nutrition

Ensure you're well-hydrated and have eaten appropriately before attempting cold immersion.

Safety Precautions

Be cautious of slippery surfaces around the immersion area to prevent accidents.

Alternatives to cold water immersion

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Options for cold water immersion for various purposes can include:

Cold Compress

Applying a cold compress or ice pack to specific body areas for short durations can help reduce inflammation and relieve pain without submerging the entire body in cold water.

Contrast Bath

Alternating between hot and cold water immersion, typically in separate containers or using hot and cold packs, can be used for muscle recovery and circulation improvement.

Cryotherapy

Whole-body cryotherapy involves standing in a chamber with frigid air for a short time, which can provide some of the benefits of cold water immersion.

Cold Showers

Taking cold showers can help improve alertness, boost circulation, and increase tolerance to cold, though it's less intense than full-body immersion.

Ice Baths

Similar to cold water immersion but focused on specific areas, such as submerging your legs in an ice bath for muscle recovery.

Cooling Clothing

Specialized clothing with cooling properties can help regulate body temperature and provide a milder alternative to full-body cold immersion.

Cold Packs or Gel Wraps

Use cold packs or gel wraps on sore or inflamed body parts for localised relief.

Is There A Specific Time for Cold Baths?

The best time for ice immersion therapy, such as cold showers or ice baths, can vary depending on your goals and personal preferences. Some people prefer it in the morning to help wake up and boost alertness, while others find it more relaxing in the evening to unwind and improve sleep quality.

Ultimately, it's a matter of what works best for you and your schedule. Just be cautious not to do it right before bedtime if it makes it difficult to fall asleep, as the body needs time to warm up and return to a comfortable temperature afterwards.

Overall

In summary, cold water immersion can be a valuable tool for bodybuilders when used judiciously, primarily for reducing muscle soreness and aiding recovery. However, it should be integrated into their training regimen with care and consideration of calledferences and needs.

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Beginners

Calisthenics: Secret to Building A Better Upper and Middle Body

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Calisthenics exercises involve using your body weight as resistance to build muscle and strength. These workouts are an effective way to develop lean muscle mass and improve overall fitness. The exercises can include push-ups, pull-ups, squats, and planks, which target different muscle groups. By consistently incorporating calisthenics into your fitness routine, you can achieve muscle growth and improved definition. This can be further enhanced by pairing your workouts with a proper diet and gradually increasing the difficulty of exercises through progressive overload.

Calisthenics exercises are suitable for people of all fitness levels and ages, intending to improve strength, flexibility, and endurance. Basic movements are recommended for beginners, while more advanced practitioners can engage in complex routines. It is vital to adjust the exercises to your fitness level and seek advice from a healthcare professional if you have any underlying medical conditions or concerns before starting a calisthenics program.

What Gains One Expect from Calisthenics

Calisthenics can be valuable in bodybuilding for several reasons:

Muscular Endurance

Alternatives to Calisthenics Exercises

There are many alternative exercises to calisthenics. Some options include:

Get Yourself A Good Coach to Help With Calisthenics

Overall

To conclude, professional bodybuilders need to integrate calisthenics thoughtfully into their training, focusing on exercises that complement their goals and existing routines. Consulting with a fitness professional can help create a customized plan.

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