To sit or stand

[emvolkin]

Cathe, (or anyone else with knowledge on this subject.)
I thought I heard you say in one of your videos that while doing upper body weight training, it's harder and you get more of a workout if you are sitting down. I have found that it is easier for me if I sit down while doing the upper body workouts, because it is easier on my back. Just wanted some rationale. If I am getting a better workout while sitting down (on a tall step), then that's hopefully better for me and my back.
Thanks
Eva

 

[Jcrew3082]

Hi Eva,

I also recall this comment. I believe it is during the Seated Lateral Raises in Pure Strength Chest, Shoulders, Triceps. Although I always trust Cathe's wisdom, I'm torn on this. I feel like standing may be more difficult for certain exercises because you have to engage your abs more to maintain good posture. Let's see who else weighs in...

Gina

 

[kathryn]

When you are seated when doing upper body work, like overhead presses or bicep curls, you reduce the amount of assistance that your lower body may be giving you when you stand. The seated position then helps isolate the working muscle better. To add another level of difficulty, do the exercises while seated on a stability ball. Not only is the working muscle targeted more, but you must engage stabilizing muscles in the back and abdominals to maintain balance.

 

[emvolkin]

Thanks for the advice. That's good to know, because I prefer to sit and it's good knowing that I am isolating the targeted muscles.
Thanks
Eva