EXERCISES FOR THE SERRATUS ANTERIOR

1. What is the serratus anterior? Where is it located and what role does it play in the body

The serratus anterior is a muscle running down the 1st to 8th ribs surface, beginning from the scapula. It is majorly on the thoracic wall. It is a super muscle, especially for boxers, and allows several movements, including flexion, rotation, and protraction. All the movements are favorable for the scapular. It also stabilizes the shoulder muscles.

 2. Is this muscle often overlooked?

Most definitely I think because of the hidden view. It is also difficult to spot if an individual’s body is not athletic or well reaped to display all muscles.

3. Why is it important to target the serratus anterior during exercise? What are the benefits?

Targeting this muscle is significant for helping the body to function at optimum level. If this muscle is left weak, it can lead to scapular winging; a condition that could cause shoulder and back issues. It can also shorten your shoulders’ flexibility, which reduces exercise performance to cause less results. But strengthening this muscle can improve flexibility, meaning you will execute proper for and maximize your exercise outcome. Furthermore, there will be reduced risk of shoulder injuries.

4. Please share an exercise that targets the serratus anterior. Explain how to do the exercise step-by-step, how many reps/sets to do, and share a few words on why the move targets the serratus anterior.

Ab roller workout

  • Get on your heels with legs shoulder-width apart, holding the roller in your arms.
  • Tuck in your core and arc in the back.
  • Roll out the wheel in front of you to a point of mild discomfort.
  • Return to starting position, as one rep.
  • Repeat 10-12 times of 3 sets.
  • Do this workout at least once every week.

Ab roll out work outs to strengthen this muscle through upward rotation and protraction of the scapula.

Anastasia Filipenko

Anastasia Filipenko is a health and wellness psychologist, dermatolist and a freelance writer. She frequently covers beauty and skincare, food trends and nutrition, health and fitness and relationships. When she's not trying out new skincare products, you'll find her taking a cycling class, doing yoga, reading in the park, or trying a new recipe.

Barbara is a freelance writer and a sex and relationships adviser at Dimepiece LA and Peaches and Screams. Barbara is involved in various educational initiatives aimed at making sex advice more accessible to everyone and breaking stigmas around sex across various cultural communities. In her spare time, Barbara enjoys trawling through vintage markets in Brick Lane, exploring new places, painting and reading.

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