Upper Back Exercises - Helping You To Strengthen Your Back



by Tiffany Nash


The back supports the weight of the upper body and has to be strong to carry out its work unhindered. Strengthening their lower back is what people focus on but the upper back muscles also need to be toned up. A well toned back not only looks good, it also aids in maintaining the correct posture. Upper back exercises are a good way of strengthening the upper back. Below are some examples of effective upper back exercises.

Upper Back Exercises

A muscular back is what men prefer to have while women would rather have a well-toned upper body. Dumbbell pullovers and dumbbell rows are effective upper back exercises.

What is a Dumbbell Pullover?

A narrow workout bench is what you will need. Lie with the workbench supporting the upper back and neck, and your head leaning over one end. Place one leg each on either side of the bench with feet firmly placed on the ground. Lift the dumbbell over your face with arms stretched out. Over your head, slowly lower the dumbbell in an arc, hold, and bring it back to its original position. Start off with five repetitions then raise the count to fifteen gradually.

Holding the dumbbell with bent arms is also a variation of this upper back exercise. Bend the elbows then slowly lower the dumbbell over your head in an arc, hold, then pull back the dumbbell gently to original position. Initially do five repetitions and gradually raise the count to fifteen.

An Overview of a Dumbbell Row

With your left leg on the bench and the right foot placed firmly on the floor, place the dumbbell on the right side of the bench. Leaning forward, place the left hand on the bench in front of the body. Are you sure your back is in a horizontal position? Pick up the dumbbell then slowly raise your arm upwards until the upper arm is in level with your upper body then hold, taking back your arm to the original position afterwards. Five repetitions are what you should start off with then gradually, you can raise the count to fifteen. Now, with the left arm, repeat the exercise.

A great way to build a strong upper back that will add to the 'V' shape of the body are these upper back exercises.




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