In the world of fitness, there are countless opinions on the best way to train your body. Some fitness influencers emphasize cardio, others swear by strength training, while a few advocate for a balanced mix of both. But every now and then, there’s a fitness journey so unconventional that it gets the internet buzzing. One such example comes from a 19-year-old TikTok user, @thecrookedman10, who has gone viral for focusing exclusively on training one muscle group – the trapezius – and even more bizarrely, only on one side of his body. This unorthodox approach has left many wondering about the long-term effects, but it also highlights a larger conversation about fitness trends, goals, and motivations.
Credit: Instagram / @thecrookedman10
The Mysterious One-Trap Training Routine
Fitness advice is plentiful, but one thing almost all experts agree on is the importance of training all muscle groups for a balanced and healthy physique. But @thecrookedman10’s approach is far from balanced – he’s dedicated months to exclusively training his left trapezius muscle, located in the upper back and neck, while ignoring the rest of his body.
The trapezius muscles (or “traps”) play a key role in upper body movement, stabilizing the shoulder blades and supporting the neck. The muscle is involved in many common exercises like shrugs and rows, but focusing solely on one side of the body, particularly one muscle group, is a strange and controversial method. So, why would anyone take such an approach?
The Motivation Behind One-Sided Training
The teenager behind this fitness experiment explained that his inspiration came from TikTok trends surrounding “looksmaxing.” This viral trend encourages users to enhance their physical appearance through extreme routines, including intensive gym sessions and highly disciplined morning rituals. In his case, @thecrookedman10 noticed that while many were aiming to “looksmax,” his situation was quite the opposite – he was already getting so much attention that it became overwhelming.
Rather than follow the typical fitness route that many TikTok influencers preach, he decided to go in the opposite direction – “looksminimizing.” He humorously concluded that the best way to make himself less symmetrical, and thus “looksminimize,” would be to train just one trapezius muscle.
His rationale was simple: by focusing on the left trap and creating a noticeable asymmetry, he could stand out from the looksmaxing crowd and make his physical appearance even more unique. And to his surprise, the response was overwhelmingly positive – many found the unusual concept amusing, and his social media following grew significantly as a result.
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The Results of One-Sided Training
As for the results, there’s no denying that his left trapezius has grown significantly larger than the right side. The imbalance is striking, with the left trap appearing much more pronounced, while the right remains noticeably smaller. But beyond the aesthetics, this experiment raises questions about fitness and muscle development.
When you focus so intently on just one muscle group – let alone one side of your body – the potential for injury, muscle imbalance, and long-term health issues is high. The body thrives on balance and symmetry, and ignoring one side of your body can lead to poor posture, uneven muscle growth, and even chronic pain in the future. Professional trainers would likely caution against any form of lopsided training as it can increase the risk of strain and disrupt the natural mechanics of movement.
Could This Be a Trend?
The trend of focusing on isolated muscle training isn’t entirely new, but @thecrookedman10’s approach is certainly an extreme version. While it might have started as a fun way to go against the grain, it raises questions about the obsession with looks and how far people are willing to go to change their physical appearance.
It’s essential to remember that true fitness isn’t just about looks – it’s about health, strength, and functional movement. Over time, many fitness enthusiasts find that balanced routines yield the best results. This includes varying your workouts to target different muscle groups and giving attention to recovery, nutrition, and overall well-being.
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However, @thecrookedman10’s viral success does highlight the growing trend of unconventional training methods. People are increasingly looking for ways to stand out and push boundaries in the fitness world, sometimes at the expense of their health. It’s always important to approach such trends with caution and consider the long-term consequences of any fitness regimen.
Health and Fitness: Focusing on Recovery and Balance
For those interested in pursuing their own fitness goals, it’s crucial to prioritize a balanced approach to physical health. For example, many individuals find success by including recovery strategies in their routine, such as incorporating stretching, strength training, and proper nutrition. For some, a holistic approach, including classes or rehab for injury prevention, is key to long-term fitness success.
Rehab or treatment programs can play an important role for those recovering from injuries or muscle imbalances. It’s always wise to consult with a professional trainer or even a lawyer specializing in fitness-related legal matters if you’re considering any major changes to your workout routine that could affect your health. Similarly, if you’re planning to transfer your fitness goals into a more structured setting, there are plenty of degree programs in sports science or physical therapy that can provide additional knowledge on safe training practices.
In cases where training becomes extreme or you push your limits too hard, seeking advice on injury prevention or even considering insurance coverage for personal training injuries can help protect your health. A proactive approach to fitness recovery ensures that you maintain balance and avoid costly mistakes down the road.
The Importance of Moderation and Balance in Fitness
Whether you’re focused on improving your physique or simply aiming for better overall health, moderation and balance should always be at the forefront. The temptation to follow extreme fitness trends or isolate specific body parts can lead to short-term gains but may have long-term consequences on your physical health.
If you’re interested in learning more about maintaining balance in your fitness routine, consider taking classes on functional training or joining a local fitness group. These programs can teach you how to target various muscle groups while ensuring your workout routine remains effective and safe.
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Conclusion
While @thecrookedman10’s approach to training only one trap muscle might seem extreme, it’s a reminder that fitness trends can be as diverse as the people who follow them. However, it’s essential to remember that balanced training, recovery, and proper technique are key to achieving long-term success and maintaining overall health. Fitness is a journey, and ensuring you take care of your body with moderation and proper guidance is the best way to avoid injury and achieve sustainable results.
