We all have various weaknesses that we want to improve. Sometimes working on the actual exercise itself is the best way to do that and sometimes, it’s faster to use “accessory” exercises. When the issue is that we are not strong enough in key parts of our body, we can use these exercises to get these parts stronger, so that they are no longer our limitations.
Accessory exercises are less taxing to the body overall, but more targeted than major lifts. They are designed to improve a specific part of a complex exercise. Take the snatch for instance. Reverse Hypers can be used for strengthening the lower back to improve the pull off the ground and behind the head presses can be used to improve your overhead position. These are just a couple of examples, but you can perform accessory exercises for all major lifts and skills.
You can only get to a certain level by doing the actual exercise. Once you reach this point, performing accessory exercises can speed up your develop by improving the exact weaknesses that are holding you back.
If you find that you’re having a hard time improving an exercise, ask a coach if doing some accessory exercises before or after class may be right for you. Alternatively, you can also have a coach see you for one-on-one personal training to assist with accessory exercises and to write you a program to follow.
