The Back Workout

While most of us women are often worried about getting a smaller waistline and sexy flat tummy, let us not forget to pay attention to the back part of our upper body. I say upper back because, let’s face it ladies, we don’t need reminders in working the lower part of our back body, I mean our glutes/booties/butt, because we make a conscious effort in making sure we pay attention to them when we workout.

Our back plays a huge role in how our entire body functions, because it attaches to the hips, abdominals, chest, shoulders, and neck. Building the back muscles will benefit us in so many ways. For one definitely is it builds a better-looking body. That large muscles in your back, for example the large wing shaped muscles on the sides of your back — creates an inverted triangle shape when they are in shape making your lower body look smaller. Strong and toned back improves posture and boosts self-confidence. For those who play sports or participate in any physical activity (and you should), a strong back will improve your performance as flexible, athletic back muscles help your body to twist, turn, lift, and move through complex movements more efficiently.

Here are some of the back workout routines I do at the gym. Ladies, do not be afraid to lift weights because contrary to the belief that lifting weights heavier than those 3lbs dumbbells will make us bulky, lifting real weights builds strength, increase metabolism, lessen the effects of aging, and make us look downright sexy. Geez ladies! We unlike men, we lack testosterone! That enables men bulk up more easily. So ditch the cute dumbbells and go lift!

Personally, my upper body needs a lot of work to tone it up. It’s a challenge but it won’t hinder me in working my ass off to ensure I develop these muscles to have a stronger back improving my overall fitness level.

I work on different areas of my body daily because I believe each part of my body needs attention and specific workout to activate and build its muscles. Here’s my schedule most of the time (ideally) on a daily basis. I follow these as much as possible. I only deviate from this routine whenever I am preparing for marathons as I have a specific set of training for it.

• Monday- Legs, Abs, Neck
• Tuesday- Back, Shoulders
• Wednesday- Chest, Arms, Cardio
• Thursday- Rest / full body light workout
• Friday- Legs, Abs, Neck
• Saturday- Back, Shoulders
• Sunday- Rest Day

Note: Not every exercise is appropriate for some conditions and certain back exercises may even make the problem worse if you have back pain issues. It is important to check with your doctor about which exercises will help or hinder you.