What exercise will work my chest muscles without stressing my shoulders?
I injured my right shoulder/rotator cuff by overdoing military presses 10 yrs ago. I still lift, but seem to hit a wall on the bench press. Is there another exercise that hits the se areas as bench pressing but won't be as likely to aggravate the cuff issues? And will keeping my arms at a 90-degree angle when reaching the lowest point on a bench press (as opposed to bringing the bar all the way down to my chest) limit or eliminate the stress placed on the injured shoulder? Chris Atlanta, GA
Other suggestions include getting to a sports medicine clinic for some PT to rehab the rotator cuff. They may help you strengthen it enough to get you back in the game a little more. As for the bench-press question, the bottom part of the exercise does put extra stress on the anterior deltoid. Bringing your hands a few inches closer together on the bar will help by putting more emphasis on the central portion of the lift, where the chest and triceps do the heavy work.
And here's my piece: perhaps you can use this as an opportunity to get away from a big weight/big muscles/barbell-oriented workout, toward a routine that focuses on greater functionality, using dumbbells and balance work. Chances are there are holes in your repertoire of basic movements (push-pull, step-squat, rotating and side-to-side) that you could spend many less-muscle-stressing workout hours fixing. You'd also stay buff, because your body would have to radically adjust to the novelty of it all.
Support Outside Online
Our mission to inspire readers to get outside has never been more critical. In recent years, Outside Online has reported on groundbreaking research linking time in nature to improved mental and physical health, and we’ve kept you informed about the unprecedented threats to America’s public lands. Our rigorous coverage helps spark important debates about wellness and travel and adventure, and it provides readers an accessible gateway to new outdoor passions. Time outside is essential—and we can help you make the most of it. Making a financial contribution to Outside Online only takes a few minutes and will ensure we can continue supplying the trailblazing, informative journalism that readers like you depend on. We hope you’ll support us. Thank you.