Overcoming Swimmer's Shoulder: My Journey to Overcome Shoulder Discomfort and Get Back to Sprint Swimming

Overcoming Swimmer's Shoulder:  My Journey to Overcome Shoulder Discomfort and Get Back to Sprint Swimming

Dive into the personal journey of a 42-year-old competitive swimmer and strength coach battling persistent left shoulder discomfort. This post details the onset of the shoulder issue that hindered sprint freestyle performance and the various treatment strategies attempted. Discover insights from an enlightening session with Dr. Alex Ewart, a physical therapist and swimming specialist, leading to a tailored treatment plan. Explore the specific exercises and therapeutic approaches aimed at addressing shoulder pain, including targeted strength training, mobility work, and soft tissue therapy. Follow this swimmer's quest to regain peak performance and manage chronic discomfort, offering valuable lessons for athletes facing similar challenges.

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Mobile Endurance Training

Mobile Endurance Training

Mobility first! Before you can stabilize, load, and perform you must have the freedom to move. Learn the keys to assessing what needs to be addressed, how to improve, and enhance your trining. “The Big Three”, ankles, hips, and shoulders, are the most mobile joints in the body. Identify any deficits, and move on from areas that meet a functional standard. Remember, mobility and stretching do not make you fit, but can inhibit your ability to get fit and perform if they do not have their functional range of motion. Test, intervene, rest. Once you move well, go train!

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Lower Back Care

Lower Back Care

Does your lower back fatigue or hurt after sitting or training? Extension faults and poor posture may be the culprits. Many people unknowingly use short-term stability strategies that lead to poor joint positioning and back pain. By focusing on core stability and proper movement patterns, you can alleviate discomfort and improve performance. Drawing from Dr. Stuart McGill's research, we share a series of core exercises designed to strengthen your lower back, reduce injury risk, and build an athletic foundation. Read on for tips to eliminate back pain and sign up for a free coaching call for personalized support!

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Low Trap Pulls for Increased Stability and Strength

Low Trap Pulls for Increased Stability and Strength

Low trap pulls are a key exercise for improving shoulder stability and strength, especially for those with poor posture or weak scapular muscles. Often overlooked, the lower traps play a vital role in depressing and stabilizing the shoulder blades, which is crucial for reducing impingement and injury risks. Start with foam rolling the thoracic spine and lats to enhance mobility, followed by activation exercises like wall angels. Incorporating low trap pulls into your routine can increase strength in exercises like pull-ups and bench presses, while reducing the risk of shoulder pain. Build stability and protect your shoulders with these essential moves.

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