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Bodybuilding the Symmetrical Side
<- Back to indexSymmetry is how the body parts fit together to form your structure and how your upper and lower body are balanced, as well as your left and right side.
Flex Wheeler and Lenda Murray have to have some of the best symmetry I have ever witnessed in the sport of bodybuilding. They both possess cannon ball deltoids, wide lats, extremely small waists, large quads with flaring sweeps, well-developed calves, and full muscle bellies. Every body part is in balance with the other.
Symmetry is genetic, but there is a lot you can do with what you are given. If you want great symmetry like the pros, then you have to start thinking like a pro and not train harder per se, but train smarter.
Obviously, wide shoulders and back with a small waist looks exceptional. Therefore, structure your upper body training to meet that standard.
The Upper Body
Heavy shoulder presses will build the foundation and lateral raises will further enhance the symmetry. Chins and lat pull downs will build a wide back to give you that well-known "V" taper, and the rows will thicken your back.
The Waist
Your waistline can have a dramatic effect on your symmetry. Small hips are a plus, but if this category is working against you, then you have to put more emphasis on your back and shoulder width to make the waist appear smaller. Also, steer clear from twisting movements and weighted side bends, as these can thicken the mid-section.
The Lower Body
Legs are the final aspect to extraordinary symmetry. You can't just train legs; you have to BUILD them. Pack on the mass with heavy squats and bring out the outer sweep with hack squats.
On the flip side, if you are holding extra non-muscle weight in the lower body, you will be better off using light to moderate weight with the squats and leg press. This basically comes down to your body type and genetics.
These are just the basics to great symmetry. While they are effective for making a symmetrical difference, don't forget the chest, all angles of the shoulders, arms, and calves.
Karen Sessions has been in the fitness industry since 1988. She embarked on weight training to overcome an eating disorder, Anorexia Nervosa in its early stages. She overcame the eating disorder, received her personal training certificate, competed in many local bodybuilding contests, and qualified for Nationals. Since then she?s went on to write six e-books (weight loss, female bodybuilding, contest preparation, leg training, figure/fitness secrets, and cellulite removal). She writes articles for several fitness websites, as well as her own, www.theelitephysique.com, and also distributes a monthly e-newsletter. She has a very active and lively forum, filled with positive and supportive people with informative content. Karen?s sole goal is to educate others and help them apply that knowledge. |
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