Sears 831.287941 user manual Proper Exercise Form, Muscles affected All Major Muscle Groups

PROPER EXERCISE FORM

The following tips are provided to help you get the most from your exercise routine:

•Always start each exercise session in the standard workout position to warm up.

•You should be able to feel yourself pivot or bend from the hip, not from the back. Don’t round your back as the bar moves forward.

•Always bring the handlebar as close to your stom-

ach or rib cage as possible. If you are new to exercise, don’t extend the bar too far forward for the first few weeks of your exercise program. As your back becomes stronger and more flexible, allow the handlebar to travel farther forward for increased range-of-motion.

•Change grip positions, thumb positions, and toe positions often to add variety, endurance, and bal- ance to each workout.

•Always place the balls of your feet in the centers of the pedals.

1 STANDARD WORKOUT POSITION

We strongly recommend that you begin every exercise session in this posi- tion. As a warm-up, it provides a balanced workout, distributing the empha- sis between upper and lower body. Vary emphasis by pulling more with the arms or pushing more with the legs. Keep your back vertical and upright at all times. You should also vary your hand grip to target certain muscle groups. For example, a wide overhand grip will target your shoulders; a close overhand grip (shown) will target your triceps; and a close underhand grip will target your biceps.

Muscles affected: All Major Muscle Groups

2 WRIST ROLL

As your strength increases, you’ll want to challenge yourself by toning your forearms even more. Use the wrist roll with either the close or wide over- hand grip. As you pull the handlebar toward your stomach, roll your knuck- les forward in a smooth motion.

Muscles affected: Forearm Flexors

3 CENTER POST GRIP

Grip the center post high with one hand above the other. Perform ten repe- titions. Change your hand positions and perform the same number of repe- titions. For greater emphasis try one hand at a time.

Muscles affected: Biceps and Chest

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