Unilateral Exercises
March 11, 2024
A unilateral exercise is resistance training or weight bearing exercise when you only
work one limb at a time (one arm or one leg). Examples of unilateral exercises for your
lower body include step-ups, split squats, or lunges. Upper-body exercises include 1
arm dumbbell or cable row, and a 1 arm dumbbell or cable press.
Unilateral exercises are great to include in your workout routine because they improve
stabilization and reduce the risk of injury. When you are only working one side at a
time, your body is forced to use the muscles that keep you stable and balanced. This
translates into better balance in everyday life.
These exercises are also great to improve muscle imbalances. We all have a dominant
side or one arm and leg that is stronger than the other. When doing exercises that
involve both sides at once, your dominant side can carry more of the workload without
you realizing it. If it is a squat or bench press, your stronger side can actually be lifting
more than half the weight. Unilateral exercises ensure both your strong and weak side
are getting equal work and help to balance out any differences in strength.
For more understanding of the proper ways to exercise for your health and your goals,
contact Axio Fitness today!
Share Post
Our Recent Blogs
We've all been there: eager to jump straight into our workout, we sometimes skip the warm-up, thinking it's a waste of precious time. But the truth is, a proper warm-up is the essential first step of any effective and safe exercise routine. It’s far more than just a quick stretch; it’s a crucial transition for your body, preparing it physically and mentally for the demands ahead. Think of your body as an engine. You wouldn't rev a cold engine to full throttle, would you? Similarly, your muscles, joints, and cardiovascular system need a gentle introduction to activity. A warm-up gradually increases your heart rate and blood flow, delivering oxygen and nutrients to your muscles. This not only improves their elasticity and range of motion but also significantly reduces the risk of strains, sprains, and other injuries. Beyond the physical benefits, a warm-up also primes your nervous system and enhances your mental focus. It allows you to tune into your body, activating the muscles you’ll be using and setting the stage for a more productive and enjoyable workout. So, next time you're about to hit the gym, give your warm-up the respect it deserves – your body will thank you for it!
Summer’s last hurrah is fading, and with the return of school and cooler weather comes a collective desire for routine. The spontaneity and late nights of the past few months are giving way to structure, and as you start to build your new schedule, there’s one non-negotiable item that should be at the top of your list: fitness. Making exercise a core part of your autumn routine is the best way to hit the reset button, not just for your body but for your mind. But why is it so important? Boost Your Mental Clarity: Regular physical activity, even a brisk walk, has been proven to improve focus and cognitive function. As you get back to work or school, this mental sharpness will be a huge asset. Elevate Your Mood: Exercise releases endorphins, which are natural mood boosters. They can help combat the "end-of-summer blues" and provide a positive outlet for stress. Enhance Your Immune System: A consistent fitness routine helps strengthen your immune system, preparing your body for the upcoming cold and flu season. Increase Your Energy Levels: While it may seem counterintuitive, working out regularly actually increases your energy, helping you power through your busy days without feeling fatigued. Improve Your Sleep Quality: Exercise can regulate your sleep cycle, leading to deeper, more restorative rest, which is essential for both physical and mental recovery. So, as you organize your planner for the new season, be sure to schedule in time for yourself. Your body and mind will thank you. If you need guidance or accountability to help you get started, Axio Fitness is here to help. We are professionals at holding you accountable and giving you the proper workout for your body and your goals.
Every year Axio Fitness has a team in the Youngstown Panerathon. If you are not doing the Panerathon this year, is it because you don’t feel you are in good enough shape to do a 10k or 2 mile walk or run? If so, then consider registering for another walk or run a few months from now. Simply registering is a great way to get yourself motivated and accountable. When you have a specific race day commitment, you’ll be much more likely to begin and stick with an exercise program. Starting a training program for a 5k or 10k is a fantastic step toward improving your health and fitness. For many, having a personalized plan and professional guidance can make all the difference in staying motivated and preventing injury. Instead of navigating the world of online training plans, consider reaching out to a personal trainer. An expert can create a custom program tailored to your specific fitness level, goals, and any physical limitations you may have. For a truly personalized experience, contact Axio Fitness. Their certified personal trainers specialize in one-on-one sessions and will work with you to develop a plan that is safe, effective, and gets you to the finish line. They can help you with everything from proper running form to setting up a schedule that fits your life. Getting started is as simple as making an appointment. With the support of an Axio Fitness personal trainer, you'll be well on your way to achieving your running goals.
We've all been told to stretch, whether it's before a run, after a workout, or even just to shake off the stiffness from a long day at a desk. But have you ever stopped to think about why stretching is so important? It's not just about feeling good in the moment; it's a powerful and often underestimated tool for preventing injuries. Think of your muscles, tendons, and ligaments as a complex network of elastic bands. When they're cold and tight, they're more susceptible to snapping under pressure. Stretching, in essence, is the process of warming up and lengthening these "bands," making them more pliable and resilient. The Science Behind the Stretch So, how does this all translate to fewer injuries? Let's break it down: Improved Flexibility and Range of Motion: Regular stretching increases the flexibility of your muscles and joints. This means your body can move through a greater range of motion without a strain. Enhanced Muscle Elasticity: Stretching improves the elasticity of your muscles, making them better equipped to absorb the shock and impact of physical activity. A flexible muscle is less likely to be pulled or torn when it's suddenly put under stress, such as during a quick change of direction in sports or a sudden stumble. Increased Blood Flow: Stretching encourages blood flow to your muscles. This increased circulation delivers vital nutrients and oxygen to the muscle fibers, promoting their health and ability to repair themselves. This is particularly important after exercise, as it helps to flush out waste products and reduce muscle soreness, which can be a precursor to injury. Correcting Muscle Imbalances: Many of us have muscle imbalances—one side of our body might be tighter or stronger than the other. These imbalances can put uneven stress on our joints and lead to pain and injury over time. Stretching can help to address these imbalances by targeting and lengthening tight muscles, restoring balance to the body. Better Body Awareness: The act of stretching forces you to pay attention to your body and how it feels. This heightened body awareness can help you to recognize Stretching isn't just a chore; it's an investment in your body's long-term health and well-being. By incorporating a consistent stretching routine into your life, you're not just limbering up; you're building a stronger, more resilient body that is better prepared to handle the demands of daily life and physical activity. If you struggle to keep yourself accountable to consistent stretching, Axio Fitness can help. We offer Stretch Therapy, a private service dedicated to stretching you in ways that are appropriate for your body and your ability. Contact us for more details about our stretch therapy sessions.
Leave a Reply
Your email address will not be published.
Required fields are marked *
