INTRO:
Head and arm circles are popular exercises that are often used to warm up the body before a workout. While these exercises can be beneficial, they can also be dangerous if done incorrectly. In this article, we will explore the potential dangers of head and arm circles and why they should be approached with caution.
Dangers of Head Circles
Head circles can be dangerous if not done correctly, as they put strain on the neck and upper back muscles. This can lead to pain and discomfort in the area, and in extreme cases, injury. Additionally, head circles can put pressure on the vertebral artery, which is a major artery in the neck that supplies blood to the brain. This can lead to dizziness, lightheadedness, and even a stroke.
Dangers of Arm Circles
Arm circles can be dangerous if done too quickly or with too much force. This can cause the muscles in the shoulder and upper arm to become strained, leading to pain and discomfort. Additionally, when done too quickly, arm circles can cause the muscles to become overworked, leading to fatigue and soreness.
OUTRO:
Head and arm circles can be beneficial exercises when done properly, but they can also be dangerous if not done correctly. It is important to be aware of the potential risks and to approach these exercises with caution. It is also recommended to seek the advice of a professional before attempting head and arm circles.
If you are considering adding head and arm circles to your exercise repertoire, you should know that these moves pose certain risks. These exercises involve a high risk of injury and can be hazardous to your health.
The primary danger associated with both head circles and arm circles is passive neck movement. Neck movement is considered passive because the muscles of the neck are not the ‘prime movers’; instead, maintaining head control comes from the muscles of the back, shoulders, and core. When the neck is passively rotated in circles, this places a lot of stress on the cervical spine and can lead to long-term pain and injury.
When doing head circles, the risk is even greater because of the extreme range of motion. As you move your head around, your neck is placed in various flexed, extended, and rotated positions. This can cause microtrauma to the joints and discs in your cervical spine. Furthermore, head circles are not the most effective way to strengthen your neck muscles. To achieve this, you should be doing exercises that focus on specific muscle contractions and control.
Arm circles, which require a wide range of arm and upper body movement, can also place stress on the shoulders and spine. People tend to use momentum to control the movement of their arms. This often causes instability in the shoulder and can place the shoulder in a vulnerable position. Furthermore, this instability can result in rotator cuff impingement, a painful condition in which the rotator cuff suffers a blow against the shoulder blade.
While head circles and arm circles may appear to be harmless exercises, they can place undue stress on the neck and shoulders and should therefore be avoided. Focus on exercises that engage the entire body and core muscles, which can help to protect the spine and improve your posture. With correct body positioning and control, you can exercise safely and effectively.
