Opposing muscles are those which have opposite movements. While one is relaxed the other is flexed. For example, biceps and triceps, quadriceps and hamstrings, or pectorals and latissimus dorsi. These are extremely important to work TOGETHER!
While working opposing muscle groups, it is important to alternate between two each set. For example, you would do biceps then triceps then biceps then triceps until your set is done. This is typically done without rest between reps because the while one muscle is working the other is relaxing which allows for a reduced need to rest.
Doing this also allows you to work harder! If you were working complimentary muscles, you would get tired pretty quickly and not be able to give 100%. However, if you are working opposing muscles you are resting one while working the other, which allows you to work harder and do more.
One important reason for working opposing muscles is balance. We tend to use the front of our bodies more (biceps to pick things up, quads to stand up) so working opposing groups helps to balance out that difference. This also assists in injury prevention by avoiding overcompensation. If your opposing muscles are uneven, one could be doing more work than it should which can, and often will, lead to injuries.
This is also important for abs! Your core is not just your abs; your back counts too. If you constantly work abs and do things that require back support, but don't work your back, you will be in a world of pain. Remember your back when you're looking for those sweet summer abs, and you will meet your goals a lot easier.
Hope this was informative,
Be safe and get strong!
While working opposing muscle groups, it is important to alternate between two each set. For example, you would do biceps then triceps then biceps then triceps until your set is done. This is typically done without rest between reps because the while one muscle is working the other is relaxing which allows for a reduced need to rest.
Doing this also allows you to work harder! If you were working complimentary muscles, you would get tired pretty quickly and not be able to give 100%. However, if you are working opposing muscles you are resting one while working the other, which allows you to work harder and do more.
One important reason for working opposing muscles is balance. We tend to use the front of our bodies more (biceps to pick things up, quads to stand up) so working opposing groups helps to balance out that difference. This also assists in injury prevention by avoiding overcompensation. If your opposing muscles are uneven, one could be doing more work than it should which can, and often will, lead to injuries.
This is also important for abs! Your core is not just your abs; your back counts too. If you constantly work abs and do things that require back support, but don't work your back, you will be in a world of pain. Remember your back when you're looking for those sweet summer abs, and you will meet your goals a lot easier.
Hope this was informative,
Be safe and get strong!