Difficulty level: Intermediate
Target Muscle: Shoulders
Equipment: Macebell
Instructions for proper form
1. Stand with your feet shoulder-width apart and hold the macebell with a neutral grip in one hand, arms extended in front of you. 2. Engage your core and ensure your back is straight. 3. Begin by rotating the macebell around your body, passing it from the opposite side of your body (behind you) to the front side. 4. Complete one full rotation before allowing the macebell to return to the back. 5. Keep your elbows slightly bent and your shoulders relaxed during the movement. 6. Engage your posterior deltoids and core throughout the motion to maintain stability.
Common mistakes to avoid
1. Overextending your arms leading to shoulder strain. 2. Lack of core engagement, which can lead to poor stability. 3. Bending forward or backward excessively instead of maintaining an upright posture. 4. Rushing through the movement without control, which can increase the risk of injury.
Benefits
Specific benefits of the exercise
1. Improves shoulder mobility and strength, particularly in the posterior deltoids. 2. Enhances core stability and overall body coordination. 3. Develops rotational strength beneficial for various sports and activities.
Expected results and timeframe
With consistent practice, you can expect improved shoulder strength and stability in about 4-6 weeks, along with enhanced overall upper body coordination and rotational motion..
Who this exercise is best for
This exercise is ideal for athletes looking to improve their shoulder strength and stability, individuals involved in sports requiring rotational power (like baseball or golf), and fitness enthusiasts looking for a dynamic shoulder workout.
Scientific studies supporting its effectiveness
Research has shown that training with rotational movements can enhance athletic performance, improve muscle activation in the shoulders, and support functional strength in daily activities. Studies emphasize the importance of dynamic movements for shoulder health and overall fitness.
Variations
Beginner modifications
1. Use a lighter macebell or a similar object to reduce the load. 2. Perform the movement in a controlled manner without full rotations at first, focusing on form. 3. Practice the motion without the macebell to ensure understanding of the mechanics.
Advanced progressions
1. Increase the weight of the macebell gradually as strength improves. 2. Incorporate lateral movements or shifts in body weight during the exercise for increased complexity. 3. Combine the Single Arm Macebell 360 with other explosive movements or incorporate pauses to build endurance.
Integrations
Complementary exercises
1. Macebell Shoulder Press. 2. Face Pulls. 3. Plank with Shoulder Taps. 4. Dumbbell Rotational Rows.
Super set recommendations
Combine the Single Arm Macebell 360 with exercises like Push-Ups or Bent Over Rows for a super set that targets both the shoulders and core effectively.
Sample workout routines
Sample Workout: A. Single Arm Macebell 360: 3 sets of 10 reps per side B. Push-Ups: 3 sets of 12 reps C. Lateral Raises: 3 sets of 10 reps D. Plank Holds: 3 x 30 seconds.
Exercise combinations
Combine with exercises targeting other muscle groups like Thrusters or Deadlifts to create a full-body workout that also emphasizes rotational strength.
Best time to do this exercise in your workout
The Single Arm Macebell 360 can be performed as part of a dynamic warm-up to activate the shoulders and core or within the main workout as an upper body strength and coordination exercise.