The teres major is a muscle located in the upper part of your back, specifically just under the shoulder. It’s relatively small and thick, shaped somewhat like a tear drop. This muscle plays a critical role in the movement of your shoulder.
The teres major works by helping to rotate your arm inward and bring it towards your body, a motion known as medial rotation. It also assists in moving your arm backward behind your body, which is termed extension. Additionally, it helps in pulling your arm downward from an elevated position, which is called adduction.
Understanding how the teres major functions can be important, especially if you are looking to enhance the muscular appearance of your upper body or improve your overall shoulder health and mobility. It often works in tandem with the latissimus dorsi, another larger muscle in your back, to perform its actions.
For those interested in strengthening this muscle, exercises that involve pulling or rowing motions can be particularly effective. Such exercises not only target the teres major but also engage surrounding muscles, creating a comprehensive workout that enhances muscle function and aesthetic. Incorporating a variety of movements that challenge these muscles in different ways can help ensure balanced strength and avoid overuse injuries. Regular exercise, combined with proper nutrition and sufficient rest, will contribute to visible muscle definition, including that of the teres major.