Men are naturally stronger than Women. Women are naturally more flexible than Men.
We always gravitate towards what we are good at so men tend to lift weights and women go to yoga classes
But a little flip would be more beneficial here….
Men generally have bad flexibility and so would benefit from more yoga and mobility work.
Women tend to lack strength and would benefit from lifting a few weights.
What is Necessary for Men
Spending a little more time improving mobility and flexibility will certainly help reduce injuries in the gym.
Many injuries are caused from a lack of movement through the joints
For example, an overhead press or snatch doesn’t go directly overhead due to a tight chest or shoulder. A restriction like this would cause excessive arch in the lower back and ultimately back problems.
Two excellent mobility movements all men should practice are:
Yoga Squat (Mobility for Shoulders, Hamstrings, Back)
Hip Openers
What is Important for Women
Many women are hyper-mobile, meaning their joints move past the normal range. I’m sure you have seen those super bendy elbows.
Having too much flexibility is as bad as non at all because it causes super laxity in the joint and a weak point for injuries. Joints need to be stable
Women adding a strength element to their exercise week will tighten up loose joints and improve stability resulting in less injury.
Plus….Our metabolism is influenced by the amount of muscle mass we have. Muscle consumes a lot of energy (calories) and so working on improving muscle tone raises your metabolic rate and thus causes you to burn more fat at rest.
Two excellent strength based exercises all women should practice are:
Lunges (the ultimate backside conditioner)
Push Ups (tighten your chest, backs of arms and core muscles)
When I see men doing mobility work in the Gym or Women in the weight section they always look good. They understand what is best for them.
So I ask you to look away from your strengths for a while and focus on what both Men and Women really need.
You’ll be amazed at the difference it makes I promise.
That’s all for today, take care
Greg
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