Why do 40+ women tend to see fat in our upper arms and can we "spot" treat it?
If you've noticed extra fat in your upper arms, watch this video to learn how it actually gets there and what you can do to improve the appearance of your arms AND proactively avoid future pain or injury!
Fat retention is a byproduct of the degree of imbalance, weakness, and asymmetries in the neuromuscular system. If you're holding body fat in an area, it is directly related correlated to the structure and function of your neuromuscular system.
Understanding the intricate relationship between body fat retention, particularly in the upper arms, and the structure and function of the neuromuscular system offers a fascinating perspective on how bodies change and form. The concept that fat retention can be a byproduct of imbalances, weaknesses, and asymmetries within our neuromuscular system sheds light on the importance of posture and body alignment in our overall well-being. Let's explore how these elements interconnect and what steps can be taken to address upper arm fat through improving neuromuscular health.
The Role of Posture and Neuromuscular Health
The phenomenon of kyphosis, or the rounding of the upper back, along with the pronation or rounding of the shoulders, is a common posture that many of us fall into due to prolonged tech use, driving, and phone use. This posture not only affects our appearance but has deeper implications for our neuromuscular health. Specifically, it can lead to a loss of innervation to key structures, such as the tricep muscle, due to the altered positioning of nerves and veins stemming from the neck down into the arm.
When the shoulder is pronated forward, it becomes difficult to fully engage and access the muscles at the back side of the arm, making it challenging to extend the arm back behind the body. This restricted movement can lead to pain and injury and further exacerbate the issue of fat retention in the upper arms.
Strategies for Addressing Upper Arm Fat Through Neuromuscular Health
1. Focus on Posture: Improving posture is crucial for enhancing the innervation and function of the muscles in the upper arms. Simple exercises and regular reminders to keep the shoulders retracted and the collarbone in a more elevated position can help correct the posture over time. This adjustment not only improves the appearance but also enhances the neuromuscular connections, making it easier to engage and tone the muscles in the upper arms.
2. Incorporate Specific Exercises: Engaging in exercises that specifically target the improvement of posture and the strengthening of the upper back, shoulders, and arms can help address the neuromuscular imbalances. Exercises such as shoulder retractions, wall angels, and scapular push-ups can be particularly beneficial.
3. Consider Professional Guidance: Work with pros who deeply understand neuro-muscular health to focus on postural correction and can provide personalized guidance and an exercise regimen tailored to individual needs.
4. Maintain a Balanced Lifestyle: While focusing on posture and neuromuscular health is key, maintaining a balanced diet and engaging in regular physical activity are also important for overall health and can aid in reducing body fat in the upper arms and elsewhere.
Conclusion
The connection between body fat retention in the upper arms and the structure and function of the neuromuscular system highlights the importance of considering our posture and neuromuscular health in our fitness and health endeavors. By focusing on improving our posture and addressing neuromuscular imbalances, we can not only enhance the appearance and tone of our upper arms but also contribute to our overall well-being. Remember, the journey to better health is holistic, encompassing not just diet and exercise but also the health of our neuromuscular system and the way we carry our bodies through the world.
