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Teres Major

Exercise Profile

Body PartBack
EquipmentBody weight
Primary Muscles
Secondary Muscles
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Introduction to the Teres Major

The Teres Major exercise is a targeted workout that primarily strengthens the teres major muscle, which is located in the upper back and helps in the rotation and extension of the arm. This exercise is suitable for anyone, especially athletes and individuals who want to improve their upper body strength and flexibility. People would want to do this exercise as it aids in enhancing their posture, reducing the risk of shoulder injuries, and improving their overall athletic performance.

Performing the: A Step-by-Step Tutorial Teres Major

  • Stand facing the machine with your feet shoulder-width apart, grab the handle with your right hand, palm facing down, and step back to create tension on the cable.
  • Bend your elbow to 90 degrees, keeping your upper arm close to your body and your forearm parallel to the floor.
  • Pull the handle down and across your body, rotating your shoulder as you do so, until your hand is near the opposite hip.
  • Slowly return to the starting position, controlling the resistance on the cable, and repeat the exercise for the desired number of repetitions before switching to the other arm.

Tips for Performing Teres Major

  • Controlled Movements: Avoid quick or jerky movements. Instead, focus on slow, controlled movements, which will help to isolate the Teres Major muscle and prevent injury.
  • Correct Weight: Don't lift weights that are too heavy for you. This is a common mistake that can lead to injury. If you can't maintain proper form, the weight is too heavy. Start with a lighter weight and gradually increase as you build strength.
  • Full Range of Motion: To get the most out of the exercise, make sure you're using a full range of motion. This means fully extending and contracting your muscles during each repetition. A common mistake is to only go through part of the range of

Teres Major FAQs

Can beginners do the Teres Major?

Yes, beginners can do the Teres Major exercise. However, it's important to start with lighter weights and focus on proper form to avoid injury. It's also beneficial to have a personal trainer or fitness professional demonstrate the exercise first to ensure correct technique. The Teres Major is a small muscle located at the back of the shoulder and it's important to strengthen it along with other shoulder and back muscles for balanced development.

What are common variations of the Teres Major?

  • The Seated Cable Row Teres Major exercise is a variation where you pull a cable towards your body while seated.
  • The Bent Over Barbell Row Teres Major workout involves bending over a barbell and pulling it towards your chest.
  • The One-Arm Dumbbell Row Teres Major exercise is a variation that involves lifting a dumbbell with one hand while supporting your body with the other.
  • The Pull-Up Teres Major exercise is a bodyweight exercise where you lift your body up by pulling on a bar above your head.

What are good complementing exercises for the Teres Major?

  • Seated cable rows can also complement Teres Major exercises, as they target the same area, but also work the rhomboids and trapezius muscles, which can help improve posture and shoulder stability.
  • Lat pulldowns are another beneficial exercise, as they primarily target the latissimus dorsi, a muscle that works in conjunction with the Teres Major, helping to improve both the strength and endurance of these muscles.

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