Trying to increase muscles strength/soreness

B

BAM

Cathlete
I posted this question awhile ago and I guess it got mixed in the shuffle so here goes again. :) I am right handed and no matter what exercises I do, the right side of my body always gets worked out more than my left side therefore I have more DOMS on that side. I understand that your dominant side is generally stronger and more coordinated (at least for me anyway x( ) so I try and work the left side separately, then do the right, but for the most part I can't seem to even the two sides out. I don't have a barbell so I'm always using the dumbbells therefore working each side independently. Do I have to just continue to try and work the left side more than the right and increase the weights? I don't know what else I can do. I'm an equal opportunity exercise enthusiast. I want DOMS EQUALLY on both sides! }( :p

Thanks!
Bam
 
Hi Bam! I will take a stab at your question. I don't have a barbell, either. IMO dumbbells are better for strengthening when you have a weaker side b/c it forces that side to do the work independently of the stronger one. Does that make sense? Now, I think a barbell is great addition to mix it up and also give the weaker side a chance to work simultaneously w/ the dominant on an equal amount of weight. I need to get one very soon! I, too, am right dominant and I have to concentrate extra hard when doing reps on the left. I think it you really concentrate and use mental energy, as Cathe so wisely states, you will get there! Oh, and I know how we all love equal DOMS, but sometimes our bodies just don't wanna cooperate ;)


"you miss 100% of the shots you never take"


Debbie
 
Thanks Debbie. I am trying to visualize that muscle being worked more but sometimes I may get distracted from doing that because I'm too busy shouting at Cathe }( , lol. I will pay more attention to this. I probably won't be getting a barbell for a long time. I appreciate your input. I'm anxiously awaiting my DOMS to kick in today from yesterday's CTX UB work. Hopefully I'll be screaming equally on both sides. :eek: :p

Bam
 
In an exercise class I did last week they had us using different weights at the same time (i.e. 8 lbs in one hand and 12 lbs in the other). They then switched half way through. I found that besides confusing me it gave me good DOMS.
I find Gym Style Chest/Triceps always gives me DOMS. I think it's due to the drop set of push ups at the beginning. In fact I did this one on Sunday and yesterday my triceps were screaming and today my chest muscles are begging for mercy.
If you're not getting DOMS your muscles may have adjusted to the workout you're doing...either increase the weight or do a different tape to shake them up.
I just wish I could get leg DOMS!
 
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