Correcting imbalances?

[jdchaffin]

I'm looking for a few tips on how to correct muscular imbalances. I'm not talking about lagging body parts but non-cimetrical issues. for instance the inner portion of my right pec tends to dip in a look flat where as my left pec looks very full all the way through. Also have an issue where one trap (the left) is fuller and sits higher than my right trap. How do you go about brining this back into balance? Do you give extra work to the smaller side? or work the larger side to the potential of the smaller. (though there does not seem to be a strength difference in the muscles) Just looking for ideas on how best to approach this.

 

[sakguy]

I have kind of a similar problem. My left pec is slightly larger, and my left arm is actually significantly larger than my right (had a DEXA scan and I have 500 more grams of muscle tissue in my left!). In the past couple of months I have been implementing more unilateral movements, as well as using dumbbells exercises in lieu of barbell ones. Not sure if that really answers your question, but I would love to hear how some of the more experienced guys have to say.

 

[oldfella]

Unilateral and dumbells would be my choice. Just try to concentrate more on the lagging or weaker side as you train will go a long way to correcting these types of imbalances. When working with bars try to look in a mirror or have someone tell you if the bar is moving level while doing reps. They might say that the left side of the bar is dipping lower etc. this will help you push harder on that side. Being aware of these things while training is where the corrections will be made. Just remember, we are not built perfectly. We all have an imbalance somewhere. Look closely at most or the top level pros, they will have one bicep different or one quad different etc. Just work hard on creating balance as best you can.

 

[jdchaffin]

Thanks for the advise guys. I was guessing that dumbbells would be the best way to go about it. It seems like you are advocating making sure that form is perfect as well.
But does the smaller side need a greater work load? does the larger side need to be held back?
I know it will never be perfect but I'm just looking at taking the first steps to correcting the issue.

 

[doug1]

this is probably one of the most difficult obstacles in bodybuilding, other than unilateral movements i don't know what else someone can do. there is always SEO too. look at the difference that arnold had in his two biceps, you can be sure he tried to make them the same, at least later in his career, i think it's very, very difficult to say the least.