Anterior Chain vs. Posterior Chain Training

Why it matters

Developing balance is key when thinking about the human body. So when thinking about strength training we need to keep this in mind. Our anterior chain muscles include the pecs, quads, shins. Our posterior chain muscles include those such as the calves, butt and lats. As we train we need to be thinking about the volume balance of sets and reps that impact both these chains in order that we don’t create any imbalances. Any imbalance can cause injury down the road. For example if I perform a barbell bench press week after week for years and years without the compliment of posterior chain pulling exercise my likelihood of a rotator cuff or shoulder injury can go up. Similarly in the lower body if I only perform knee dominant squatting exercises with heavy load and don’t compliment them with posterior chain hip extension movements this could result in lumbar disk pain later on in life because of an anterior pelvic tilt. Be balanced in your exercise selection and you will not only gain strength but be training safely for the long run.