symetry

[georgencat]

I've been gone for some time, but am back on clean eating/lifting. I looked in the mirror today and got quite a shock...upon putting both arms up and flexing bi's/shoulders, I can clearly see a defined right shoulder, and only somwhat defined left shoulder :(. It is to the point that I actually see a cut in the right defining dif muscles, but nothing on the left?? now I know my left arm and shoulder are weaker than my right (I am right handed), and can feel the weakness when I work out. I have been told the strength will eventually catch up..but I dont want to look uneven by any means..is this normal for beginners, b cuz I dont see this in any pics of anyone else?? Please help, I feel deformed!!

[northernbelle]

Everyone has a dominant side. In a lot of exercises, the dominant side does most of the work, but you don't notice it.

My left arm and shoulder are also weaker than my right. I started using dumbbells more often, as they work each side independently. Start with your left side if you are doing an exercise in which you can alternate sides; when you come to do your right side, only do as many as your left tolerated. This works for leg extensions and leg curls also. If you are doing both sides simultaneously, like a dumbbell bench press, do it only as far as your left side can go.

I did this for several months, and threw in barbell work occasionally. My left side did catch up. Although I still do each side independently with dumbbells, I am using a barbell more often. I am finding that my left side can keep up with my right, in keeping the bar balanced and moving.

Hope this helps...