Shoulder shrugs under the overhead load
Upper trap replaces serratus and lower trap in stabilizing the arm.
Overactive muscles
Upper trapeziusLevator scapulae
Corrective work
Foam RollUpper traps↗StretchLevator scapulae stretch↗Lunge · Full Body
KB Single-Arm Overhead Lunge
Coaching cues
- One KB locked out overhead; step into alternating lunges
- Shoulder stays packed — not shrugged; arm fully extended
- Resist lateral lean toward or away from the overhead load
- High stability demand on the overhead shoulder throughout
Common faults 2
Trunk leans away from the overhead arm
QL on the opposite side compensates for the lateral overhead demand.
Overactive muscles
Quadratus lumborumTFL
Corrective work
Foam RollQuadratus lumborum↗StretchQL side-bend stretch↗