Why work full body? - Exercise & Fitness Message Board

Ruh-Roh · 01-08-2003, 05:15 PM

Im not argueing the point that one should work their full body istead of just their upper or lower body, I just want to understand why. I only have access to upper body stuff, so I cant really work my legs, and its hard to get motivated to do back and ab stuff.

Right now I have a easy schedule
day1-Benchpress,militarypress,dumbellflys
day2-rest
day3-Bicep curls,tricep lift behind your head things
day4-rest
day5-Benchpress,militarypress,dumbellflys
Ect...
I have noticed definate improvement in my muscle tone and my strength. Does anyone think that just doing these excercises isn't a good idea? If so, what else should I incorporate into my routine. Keep in mind that im 14 and don't have access to a gym. I have a Bench and some adjustable dumbells. Thx

H8CC · 01-08-2003, 06:12 PM

Your body likes balance. But also - back and legs are the largest muscles in your body = much more growth hormone release = bigger gains everywhere. as far as motivation - just remember that half the time people see your back before the front of you. Does your bench posts not extend to do squats? also you could do dumbell squats. Sprints are also great for building mass as well as taking care of cardio.

H8CC

crcaz · 01-08-2003, 10:13 PM

U could get a dipping belt (~$30) and use that for donkey calf raises, and squats between two boxes. Also, one leg calf raises, step ups,lunges,squats w/ dumbells/barbell, seated calf raise w/ barbell(just some examples).

Look into wrist straps w/ hooks, and the hip squat weight belt by ironmind(u would need a e-z curl barbell for better balance), these will give u a better freeweight leg workout and set u back ~$100. Bands will give u lots of options, too.HTH

justanotherday · 01-08-2003, 10:45 PM

you really should work your legs and back as well many times in the gym i will see a guy who has certain areas of his body more muscular or developed then other parts. Its always better to achieve some type of balance in my opinion.

Merrida · 01-09-2003, 12:13 PM

It's so common for men to work just their upper body or just the parts they can see,... w/o realizing what they really look like.

One source of motivation might be how unbalanced your body will look by ignoring your legs, and how funny it looks to see a barrel chest with a flat back, flat butt, and no legs.

Besides, as mentioned, your legs are very effective at helping you achieve greater mass all over like no other body part can when isolated. It's not wise to split your routine like this and ignore your lower body and half of your upper body! Besides looking totally imbalanced and cheating yourself, you're also setting yourself up for injuries.