Do weightlifters have wobbly shoulders?
Characteristics of Anterior Shoulder Instability and Hyperlaxity in the Weight-Training Population
Not medical advice. For informational purposes only. Always consult a healthcare professional. Terms
Surprising Findings
Asymptomatic weightlifters show clinical signs of shoulder instability
Most people assume no pain means no problem, but this study shows structural changes can exist before symptoms appear—challenging the idea that pain is the best indicator of injury risk.
Practical Takeaways
Avoid or modify behind-the-neck exercises like lat pulldowns and military presses to reduce shoulder instability risk.
Not medical advice. For informational purposes only. Always consult a healthcare professional. Terms
Surprising Findings
Asymptomatic weightlifters show clinical signs of shoulder instability
Most people assume no pain means no problem, but this study shows structural changes can exist before symptoms appear—challenging the idea that pain is the best indicator of injury risk.
Practical Takeaways
Avoid or modify behind-the-neck exercises like lat pulldowns and military presses to reduce shoulder instability risk.
Publication
Journal
Journal of Strength and Conditioning Research
Year
2013
Authors
M. Kolber, Melissa Corrao, W. Hanney
Related Content
Claims (3)
Guys in their 20s who lift weights at least twice a week might have looser shoulder joints than those who don’t, according to a test that measures joint movement.
Guys who lift weights are more likely to show signs of loose shoulders—even if they don’t feel any pain—compared to guys who don’t lift.
Doing certain shoulder exercises like behind-the-neck pulldowns or military presses might increase your risk of shoulder instability, but strengthening the external rotator muscles could help protect your shoulders.