Does Scapula Retraction Matter?

The back muscles are a major part the body that produces force, assists stabilizing the core, and is responsible for proper posture and maintaining a neutral spine. When training the major back muscles, focus on completing the pulling exercise with a retracted scapula/shoulder and slight depression of the scapula/shoulder (pulling the shoulders back and slightly down as the muscles contract). The shoulder retraction and slight depression during a pulling exercise will maintain shoulder stability while the back muscles contract throughout the range of motion.

TIP: A forward learning shoulder, known as scapula protraction, will increase the risk of injury due to the lack of shoulder stability. Avoid shoulder injuries during high intensity exercises by retracting the scapula and maintaining shoulder stability throughout the moves.

Are you familiar with the protraction and retractions of YOUR shoulder? Connect with me to make sure you are in the know about shoulder stability while thoroughly engaging back muscles.