The Key to Strengthening the Rotator Cuff!(Teres Major vs Infraspinatus)

The two most important muscles to focus on for strengthening the rotator cuff (which is absolutely essential for anyone lifting weights) are the Teres Minor and the Infraspinatus. (See Image 1)

Both muscles externally rotate the shoulder, but there’s one all-important difference between them! The Infraspinatus is worked far more effectively with the shoulder adducted (elbow tucked into the body – see Image 2), while the Teres Minor is worked far more effectively with the shoulder abducted (elbow up 90 degrees to the side – See Image 3). You need to work BOTH positions for a healthy, strong rotator cuff!!

Note: Strengthening the rotator cuff is a huge emphasis in my Total Shoulder Program, which includes 25+ different exercises for working the Teres Minor and Infraspinatus – using any equipment. If you already have rotator cuff issues though, you need the Gains Without Pains version!

Relevant Research Articles:     
      1) Muscle activity pattern of the shoulder external rotators differs in adduction and abduction: an analysis using positron emission tomography
      2) Anatomic study and electromyographic analysis of the teres minor muscle
      3)Infraspinatus Isolation During External Rotation Exercise at Varying Degrees of Abduction

Relevant Dr. Gains YouTube Videos:
      1) Why is Shoulder Pain in Lifting So Common??? (Principle of Internal & External Rotation Explained)
      2) EVERYTHING You NEED to Know BEFORE Working Shoulders! (Part 1)
      3) Lifting With Shoulder Pain / Injury? This 10-Week Science-Based Program Will Change Your Life!