Strength Training Tips
About Form
Quality of movement is essential to maintain throughout the entire
exercise set. When quality of movement is lost, compensation
patterns may arise that create a problem with the stability of a joint
structure. Ensuring that good quality of movement or “proper form” is
established for every repetition will improve your awareness, strength
and protection of the active joint structures.
Each exercise has a different definition of its proper form. As a
general rule, the objective is to position the joint structures in a
safe or “neutral” position before and throughout the repetition.
As an example, during a seated biceps curl, the spine
should show natural curvature [no excessive curvature at the lumbar
(lower), thoracic (mid-back) or cervical (neck)] throughout. The upper
body should remain steady throughout. The shoulder blades are drawn
back and down (retracted and depressed) throughout. The breathing
patterns remain normal. Also, the wrists should remain neutral.