Your latissimus dorsi muscles, often referred to as "lats," are located in your middle and lower back, covering a large area on either side of your spine. They extend from your upper arm bone (humerus) down to your spine and hip.
Here's a more detailed breakdown:
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Location: They are the widest muscles in your back, spanning from just below the shoulder blades down to the lower back.
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Attachment Points:
- Upper Arm (Humerus): They attach to the intertubercular groove of the humerus.
- Spine: They attach to the spinous processes of vertebrae T7-L5 (thoracic and lumbar spine).
- Ribs: They connect to the lower ribs.
- Iliac Crest: They also attach to the iliac crest of the hip bone.
- Scapula: They have an indirect attachment to the inferior angle of the scapula (shoulder blade).
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Function: The lats are responsible for several movements, including:
- Adduction: Bringing your arm towards your body.
- Extension: Moving your arm backward.
- Internal Rotation: Rotating your arm inward.
- Assisting in Respiration: They can help with breathing.
- Trunk Extension and Rotation: Contributes to movements of the torso.
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Why they are important: Strong lats are crucial for:
- Pulling Movements: Essential for activities like rowing, swimming, and pull-ups.
- Posture: They help maintain good posture and spinal stability.
- Overall Strength: They contribute to overall upper body strength and power.
- Athletic Performance: Significant for many sports.
In essence, your lats are large, flat muscles that cover the width of your middle and lower back, playing a vital role in arm movement, posture, and overall strength.
