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Q:  What is the best way to build strength in my upper body?

A: It is important to incorporate a program that includes strength for the total body to establish a balance.  In addition, give attention to the areas that may be weaker.  I had a client that was so overtrained in the chest from numerous repetitions of bench press that he developed weak back muscles, hunched posture and tight pectoralis (chest) muscles.  With proper posture and good body mechanics, execute a program that divides the body in 1/2 to include: chest, upper back, abdominals,lower back, bicep, tricep, shoulders, quadriceps and hamstrings for the major muscle groups.  One or two sets of eight to twelve quality repetitions performed twice a week is a reasonable program for building total body strength.