One arm stronger than the other

tgh1914

Any other lifters have this issue? When I first started out I thought it'd eventually even out, but it hasn't. My right is quite a bit stronger in curls, bench, flys & overhead presses than my left.

So I either have to short-change my right on intensity or my left is only at like 5 reps when my right can do like 8 at the same weight. But I don't think I should encourage the disparity by giving my right more load than the left, right? er, correct?

BamBam1113

I also have this issue.

ShannanLaNae

me too, so i put heavier weights on my left than my right

Edestiny7

I was told to concentrate more on the weaker side, to get it to do what it is supposed to. But that was on machines that were lifting somewhat evenly. I'm not sure how it would work for free weights.

hroush

Any other lifters have this issue? When I first started out I thought it'd eventually even out, but it hasn't. My right is quite a bit stronger in curls, bench, flys & overhead presses than my left.

So I either have to short-change my right on intensity or my left is only at like 5 reps when my right can do like 8 at the same weight. But I don't think I should encourage the disparity by giving my right more load than the left, right? er, correct?

This would be a great question for Mehdi at stronglifts.com. I just posted the question on stronglifts facebook site and I'll let you know if I get any answers.

I would say don't short change your right and try to do more with your left.

freerange

Most people will have this "problem" do this when doing one arm exercises do you weak side first and match it with your strong side even though you could do more just do the same number of reps you did with your weak side

koosdel

It's normal, and its ok. It will somewhat even out once you get stronger, a lot stronger.

I wouldn't recommend extra weight, or work on your weak side though. Just keep pushing and adding weight when you can. Patience is the key here.

taso42_DELETED

bump cuz i'm interested. mine are somewhat evening out, but the left is definitely weaker.

peteyTwang

Why do you not recommend extra weight, or work on our weak side? Is working heavier or more reps with my weaker (left) side really a bad idea? I thought I read advice to do exactly that

I wouldn't recommend extra weight, or work on your weak side though. Just keep pushing and adding weight when you can. Patience is the key here.

ZachyABaby

Gotta learn to alternate, man.

chrisdavey

It's not only muscle strength but also coordination and nuerological. If you are worried about it, I would choose to do more volume on the weaker arm ie. 5 sets on right and 3 on left.

My issue is my left arm is physically larger (especially tricep) but it is still weaker! That sucks. I didn't notice until my mate asked me why it is bigger one day haha. Genetic issues. Symmetry is not my strong point clearly, oh well.

koosdel

Why do you not recommend extra weight, or work on our weak side? Is working heavier or more reps with my weaker (left) side really a bad idea? I thought I read advice to do exactly that

I wouldn't recommend extra weight, or work on your weak side though. Just keep pushing and adding weight when you can. Patience is the key here.

Because you could develop an imbalance of 'support' muscles.

Curls, for example. If you were to do extra with one arm, then the shoulder, ab, and leg muscles on that side are working extra too. Also, it could possibly stress your spine, though marginally.

Instead of exercising the weak side more, try evaluating how you use your strong arm in day to day activities. Which hand do you drive with, or carry things in? Change that up.

CommittohealthCHANGED

I also have this problem with my left arm.

otr12

atomdraco

Same here, but it's my left stronger. BTW, I'm right handed, so not sure why left is stronger.

atomdraco

LOL