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One arm stronger than the other

tgh1914
tgh1914 Posts: 1,036 Member
edited September 2024 in Fitness and Exercise
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?

Replies

  • BamBam1113
    BamBam1113 Posts: 542 Member
    I also have this issue.
  • ShannanLaNae
    ShannanLaNae Posts: 434 Member
    me too, so i put heavier weights on my left than my right
  • Edestiny7
    Edestiny7 Posts: 730 Member
    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
    hroush Posts: 2,073 Member
    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
    freerange Posts: 1,722 Member
    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
    koosdel Posts: 3,317 Member
    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
    taso42_DELETED Posts: 3,394 Member
    bump cuz i'm interested. mine are somewhat evening out, but the left is definitely weaker.
  • peteyTwang
    peteyTwang Posts: 250
    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
    ZachyABaby Posts: 235
    Gotta learn to alternate, man.
  • chrisdavey
    chrisdavey Posts: 9,834 Member
    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
    koosdel Posts: 3,317 Member
    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
    CommittohealthCHANGED Posts: 436 Member
    I also have this problem with my left arm. :tongue:
  • otr12
    otr12 Posts: 632 Member
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  • atomdraco
    atomdraco Posts: 1,083 Member
    Same here, but it's my left stronger. BTW, I'm right handed, so not sure why left is stronger.
  • atomdraco
    atomdraco Posts: 1,083 Member
    quagmire-learns-about-internet-porn-family-guy.png

    LOL
This discussion has been closed.