Know Your Body- Biceps

The front of your upper arm is made up of 3 muscles Biceps Brachii (long head) Biceps Brachii (short head) Brachialis What movement do they do? The biceps flex your elbow eg bring your hand towards your shoulder. What problems can occur if they are too tight? As your biceps join onto the front of your shoulder, when they become tight they can create what is commonly called a shoulder impingement by pulling your shoulder forward. Also, when your biceps are too tight, your elbow can become inflamed and be quite uncomfortable. RSI is also a common result of extremely tight biceps. Where on the body can tight biceps cause pain? Tight biceps have a significant impact on your posture and they can lead to discomfort in your wrists, elbows, shoulder and neck. How do I know if my biceps are too tight? From where you are right now, extend your arm directly out in front. Can you feel the front of your arm pulling? If not, with that arm still extended and with your palm facing up, bring your arm down by your side then pull your arm back behind you. Do you feel a strong stretch in the front of the shoulder? If so, that is a warning sign to stretch your biceps. How do I make my biceps flexible? The most effective and quickest way is with assisted PNF stretching. Within 30 minutes you are guaranteed to have your arms feeling loose and leave you with more strength. Contracting and releasing the muscles of the biceps help to reset them and it feels great. If you would like to have your bicep muscles stretched and strengthened book an appointment here. Otherwise, heads to the movement library and try this movement to help improve.