9 Exercises You’d Better Avoid If You Dream of Having a Feminine Body
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2. Exercises to increase the shoulders and neck
The back of your neck and the upper section of your back contain the trapezius muscle, a flat, broad muscle. You run the risk of developing a broad back and losing your thin neck when you exercise this set of muscles. So perhaps you should stay away from exercises that could bulk up the vulnerable feminine shoulders and cover the neck.Here are 3 workouts that professionals advise against including in your training routine:
Shrugs while using a barbell or dumbbells

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I understand your concern about potentially bulking up the trapezius muscles and losing a slender neck appearance through certain exercises. It's a valid consideration, especially for those seeking to maintain a more feminine physique.
You're correct that the trapezius is a large, flat muscle that spans the upper back, shoulders, and neck area. Exercises that primarily target and overwork this muscle group can lead to increased muscular development, potentially resulting in a broader back and thicker neck appearance.
Here are three exercises that professionals often advise against including excessively in training routines for those aiming to maintain a slimmer, more delicate neck and shoulder line:
1. Upright Rows: This exercise directly targets the trapezius muscles by raising weights toward the chin. It can lead to increased trapezius development, contributing to a thicker neck and broader shoulder appearance.
2. Shrugs: Shoulder shrugs, particularly with heavy weights, can significantly overwork the upper trapezius fibers, potentially causing the trapezius muscles to become overly developed and pronounced.
3. Behind-the-Neck Presses: Exercises that involve pressing weights behind the neck, such as behind-the-neck shoulder presses or pull-downs, can place excessive stress on the trapezius muscles and contribute to their hypertrophy (muscle growth).
Instead of focusing heavily on these exercises, it's generally recommended to incorporate more balanced shoulder and back workouts that target multiple muscle groups without overemphasizing the trapezius. Some alternative exercises to consider include:
1. Lateral Raises: These target the deltoids (shoulder muscles) while minimizing trapezius involvement.
2. Reverse Flyes: This exercise works the rear deltoids and upper back muscles while keeping the trapezius relatively uninvolved.
3. Face Pulls: These effectively target the rear deltoids and upper back muscles while minimizing trapezius activation.
Additionally, incorporating cardio, HIIT (High-Intensity Interval Training), and maintaining a balanced diet can help promote overall fat loss and muscle definition, contributing to a leaner and more toned appearance without excessive muscular development in specific areas.
Remember, individual responses to exercise can vary, and it's essential to listen to your body and adjust your routine accordingly. If you notice excessive trapezius development or a broader neck appearance, you may want to reassess your exercise selection and intensity.
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