Shifting Focus to Preventing Injuries

[George Grigoryan]

Guys,

I am 23 years old. I have always been active (soccer), but only started lifting weights 1.5 years ago.

I know I am not that old, but I am already begining to notice health issues. So I am shifting my focus to priotarize health. If you have been through something like this please provide your input.

Here are the things I would like to fix:

1. GI isues. No major issues, but I am often walking around a bit bloated. I am going to take turns eliminating certain foods and see if I feel better.

2. I have this nagging shoulder issue. What really sucks about it is that I it pops up for 1-2 weeks every 4-5 months. I feel paing during pullups and rows. I know this is not something that can be diagnosed online. How do I go about figure out the cause an eliminating it?

3. Posture. I have a 'slouched' posture, not very prominent at all, but I don't like it. How do I fix it?

[Lost Dog]

As to 2 and 3, check out this series, over at t-nation.

Neanderthal No More Part I: The complete guide to fixing your caveman posture!

Neanderthal No More, Part II

Neanderthal No More, Part III

Neanderthal No More, Part IV

Neanderthal No More, Part V

It's a lot to read, but there are some fine methods for self-diagnosis and "repair" strategies. It's worth the read.