Many of us tend to forget our backs when working out—and in our day-to-day lives. Posture is crucial, people! A strong, toned back is what helps you get that.
To tighten and tone your upper back and under your arms you’ll need to work on the latissimus dorsi muscle. Try these three moves and you’ll have great posture—and a sexy back—in no time!
1. Tipping Row – Stand up straight and hold two dumbbells (whatever weight you’re comfortable with) with your palms facing each other. Lift up your left foot so you are balancing on your right leg. Find your balance, then slowly lift your left leg back and extend your arms toward the floor. Holding this position, bend your elbows back so that the dumbbells meet the sides of your chest. Remember to keep your shoulders down and elbows straight back.
2. Pull-up – With palms facing away from you, grip your pull-up bar with arms extended. Keeping your core tight while engaging your back and lats, bring yourself up until your chin passes above the bar, then lower yourself down into the starting position. Remember to avoid swinging your entire body or using your neck for added momentum.
3. Bent over row – With a pair of dumbbells and your feet hip-width distance apart, bend at the waist. Keep your back parallel to the floor with a neutral spine. With a slight bend in your knees, hold your arms and the dumbbells extended out in front of you. Engage your abs and squeeze your shoulder blades together as you bring the weights to your torso. Slowly lower the weights back to the starting position to complete one rep.
