The other day my friend came round and was checking out my weight lifting equipment. I asked if he wanted to try them out and he said that it would be harder for him since he’s taller than me (I’m 5′7, he’s roughly 6′3) He then went on to explain that small people are the only people to really do bodybuilding since they don’t have to lift the weights as far and their muscles are closer together and so are easier to use. Is this true?
Your friend is correct, and that is a basic accepted premise for anyone truly experienced in the bodybuilding genre.
Taller people generally are not as successful in bodybuilding and powerlifting. That is an undeniable statistical fact if one analyzes contest records.
If anyone has ever been around, or researched world class bodybuilders and powerlifters, they tend to range from the 5ft 5″ to 5ft 8″ height ranges – shorter than average. The few tall professional bodybuilders are often quoted as complaining about how their height hinders them.
The increased range of motion that taller people have to use is one theory, as well as increased muscle belly length of taller individuals.
If one just thinks of the classic powerlifting moves – say a deadlift for example….
I am 5ft 4″, so therefore have to move the bar approximately 2 feet. My brother is 6ft 4″ – so must move the bar approximately 3 feet.
What is easier – moving a heavy object 2 feet or 3 feet?
Good luck with your training.
no, that is ablsolute HOGWASH!
yea small people have smaller arms…i know i am smaller