
Summary: Strengthening the rear deltoids is essential for overall shoulder stability and balance, especially for weightlifting or other sports involving shoulder movements.
The "rear delta" typically refers to the rear deltoid muscle, one of the three major muscles in the shoulder. It is located at the back of the shoulder, and its primary function is to assist in the arm's abduction or outward movement. Exercises like rear deltoid raises or reverse flies can target and work this muscle group.
Benefits of rear delta
Strengthening and developing the rear deltoid muscles, often referred to as the posterior deltoids, offer several benefits:
Improved Shoulder Stability: Strong rear deltoids contribute to better overall shoulder stability, reducing the risk of injuries and enhancing joint health.
Balanced Shoulder Development: A well-rounded shoulder appearance is achieved by developing all three deltoid heads, including the rear deltoids, creating an aesthetically pleasing physique.
Posture Enhancement: Well-developed rear deltoids can help improve posture by counteracting the forward shoulder position that often results from modern activities like excessive computer use or sitting.
Injury Prevention: Strengthening the rear deltoids can help prevent imbalances in shoulder musculature, leading to overuse injuries, especially in athletes who engage in activities like overhead throwing.
Functional Strength: The rear deltoids play a crucial role in daily activities involving lifting, pushing, and pulling, making them essential for functional strength and daily life.
Athletic Performance: Athletes, especially those in sports requiring upper body strength, can benefit from improved performance and injury prevention when their rear deltoids are adequately trained.
Enhanced Shoulder Definition: Developing the rear deltoids contributes to a more defined and rounded shoulder appearance, which is desirable for many bodybuilders and fitness enthusiasts.
Exercises like rear deltoid raises, face pulls, bent-over lateral raises, and reverse flies are commonly used in strength training routines to target the rear deltoids effectively. Incorporating these exercises into your workouts is essential to enjoy these benefits and maintain shoulder health.
Parts of deltoid
The deltoid muscle, often called the "delts," is a large, triangular muscle located on the uppermost part of the arm and the top of the shoulder. It consists of three distinct parts or heads:
Anterior Deltoid (Front Deltoid): This is the front portion of the deltoid muscle. It originates from the clavicle (collarbone) and inserts into the humerus (upper arm bone). The anterior deltoid is responsible for the flexion and forward movement of the arm, such as lifting it forward.
Lateral Deltoid (Middle Deltoid): The lateral deltoid is situated on the side of the shoulder. It originates from the scapula (shoulder blade) acromion process and inserts onto the humerus. The lateral deltoid is responsible for the abduction of the arm, which is the movement of raising the arm out to the side.
Posterior Deltoid (Rear Deltoid): The rear deltoid is at the shoulder's back. It originates from the spine of the scapula and inserts into the humerus. The primary function of the posterior deltoid is shoulder extension and the outward rotation of the arm.
These three parts of the deltoid muscle work together to provide a wide range of motion in the shoulder joint, allowing for various arm movements and shoulder stability. To achieve a balanced and well-developed shoulder, it's essential to target each part of the deltoid through appropriate exercises in your strength training routine.
German hang
The "German hang" is a gymnastic exercise or stretching position that involves hanging upside down from a horizontal bar or ring. It is also sometimes called the "skin of the cat." Here's how you can perform a German hang:
· Find a sturdy horizontal bar or gymnastics ring to support your body weight.
· Stand facing the bar or rings, and reach up to grab them with an overhand grip (palms facing away from you) slightly wider than shoulder-width apart.
· Lift your feet off the ground and let your body hang down. Initially, you'll be in an upright position.
· Slowly tuck your knees towards your chest while keeping your arms straight. As you tuck your knees, your body will rotate backward and upside down.
· Keep going until your body is inverted, your feet pointing upward, and your shoulders flexed. Your body will be "hanging" or "hollow".
· Hold this position momentarily to stretch and strengthen your shoulders, back, and core.
To return to the starting position, reverse the movement by untucking your knees and allowing your body to rotate back to an upright hanging position. The German hang is an advanced exercise that requires flexibility, strength, and control. It can be used as a gymnastic or calisthenics routine to improve shoulder mobility and upper body strength. However, it's essential to perform this exercise with caution and under the guidance of a trained instructor if you're not experienced with it, as it can place a significant load on the shoulders and may lead to injury if done incorrectly.