Since the dawn of mankind, humans have needed the back muscles for bending, lifting and carrying objects. Whether a person is picking up a baby or a barbell, the back muscles are vital part of our existence.
The back has to be strong – so why not make it look good in the process?
Back Muscles
The back has three major muscle groups: the latissiumus dorsi, trapezius and the spinal erectors. Each muscle group gives the back certain aesthetically pleasing characteristics.
The latissiums dorsi, more commonly known as the lats, performs many functions. These triangle-shaped muscles begin along the spine and extend from the shoulder to the waist. The lats rotate and lower the arm, as well as pull the shoulder backwards.
The lats have the biggest surface area of any muscle in the body, providing width to the back. This aspect helps give the upper body the “V” shape from the shoulders to the waist. Lat pulldowns, pullups and upper back rows give the back muscles width, thickness and definition.