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2004/01/08, 01:33 PM
I use a Crossbow (The fake Bowflex). I find any back exercise fatigues my arm muslces and I never feel anything in my back. Also, I can squat a lot more than my upper body can hold. So, if I don't have access to a gym how can I isolate the back and replace the upper body straining squats?
One more thing; is it normal that the calves and shoulders are the only muscles that seem to "burn" when I work them? If so, why is this?
Chris
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2004/01/08, 01:44 PM
On the Crossbow/Bowflex, I believe you can perform seated rows to target the upper back. Remember, when you do these, pull from the elbows...not the arm! You should also contract the back muscles as you pull with your elbows. If you have a lat attachment, you can also perform pull downs behind the neck. This also targets your upper back...but remember to pull with your elbows.
Squats are a leg exercise. Again, you are "pushing" using your hamstrings and quads. Go slightly below parallel. Do these with light weights until you can perform them with strict form. Then, you can up the resistance.
Good luck!
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**_Robert_**
Pain is temporary; glory is forever!
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2004/01/08, 02:22 PM
I can only squat about 40 pounds of resistance on the Crossbow because anymore with pull me back. I can't hold the cables and stay straight. But, 40 pounds is too easy on my legs, I feel I could go indefinitely. Should I just isolate hams and quads separately or is there a trick or exercise to replace squats?
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2004/01/08, 03:41 PM
Can you do leg presses on the crossbow? If so, do those but continue to do the squats as those will benefit you greatly overall. When you say 'pull me back' do you mean that you feel like you are going to fall backwards? If so take a block of wood about 1 1/2 to 2 inches and put your heels on it, also point your toes slightly outward. This will give you a better feel of stability.
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2004/01/08, 03:46 PM
I am glad that I keep reading these posts. I find something new everday. I am going to have to remember the tip that rpacheco gave about pulling from the elbo and not arms. I guess that is why I have strong arms for their size. I use them for everything. lol
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It's not what we eat or drink occasionally, but what we consume on a daily basis that determines our ongoing level o health.
formerfatguy.com
Not sure of author
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2004/01/08, 04:26 PM
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Quoting from csferrie:
I can only squat about 40 pounds of resistance on the Crossbow because anymore with pull me back. I can't hold the cables and stay straight. But, 40 pounds is too easy on my legs, I feel I could go indefinitely. Should I just isolate hams and quads separately or is there a trick or exercise to replace squats?
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You should be able to do seated leg presses on the Crossbow, both one- and two-legged for added challenge. If you have dumbbells, you can perform lunges...good for the glutes and quads.
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**_Robert_**
Pain is temporary; glory is forever!
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2004/01/08, 08:40 PM
Great advice agamble! I will try the block of wood tomorrow morning. I also never thought of doing one legged presses. Two legs is easy with the max of 240 pounds on the Crossbow. Thanks Robert.
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