It's been a number of weeks since my last blogpost, so while I take some much needed time out from work and the gym, I decided to quickly jot down a few thoughts about was has been happening.
At the start of July I drove from Edinburgh to London in order to visit my parents. It was a quick trip, with the return leg being made a couple of days later. Although the journey in both directions was pleasant, by the time I got home my right shoulder and arm felt very fatigued.
I began to think logically about why driving should have caused this. It then occurred to me that my posture has changed significantly since starting at Luke Bremner Fitness. So I decided to alter my car seat to a more upright position. Bingo! Later that month I drove to Manchester and back, and on that journey I encountered no physical discomfort at all. As a result I've now adjusted my office chair so that it's in a more upright position too.
For sometime now, both Luke and I have been aware of the restricted mobility I have with my right arm and shoulder. We know there are certain exercises, like the bench press and kneeling military press with barbell, that are still challenging for me to do.
About twelve months ago Luke suggested that I visit Bodyworks Edinburgh for an assessment on my problematic side and to see if a deep tissue massage would help loosen things up. Jonathan Wilson, a remidial and sports massage therapist at the practice, has been looking after me ever since.
Usually I opt for an hour-long session. This provides Jonny with sufficient time to work his magic on my right side, without it becoming too painful. In addition, there's often time remaining for him to demonstrate some daily exercises for me to do that will assist me. Currently I'm doing various chest and shoulder stretches - with the aid of a door frame - and some Y, T and W exercises.
The combination of adjusted seating positions, massage and stretching excercises are definitely starting to pay off. My Tuesday morning workouts with Luke, plus my Thursday and Sunday solo workouts at home, have been going along nicely. As long as I'm making progress - whether it's the number of reps, an increase in weights, or simply better technique - then I remain a very happy chap.
