Why are my chest muscles growing unsymmetrically when I exercise?

Question

I bench press and do other assorted chest muscle exercises consistently, every other day; however my left pec muscle is growing larger and stronger than my right. I am almost certain I am working them out identically, and when I push out on the bench, I push out evenly (without any weird movement that would produce a different effect). Does anyone know why this unequal growth is occurring?

Answer 1

That is odd. One thing you didn't mention is if you're using machines or not. That's the downfall of machines in that one side of the body often compensates for the weakness of another side since it's all connected.

Another thing to try is instead of using a bar or machines, use dumbells. This forces both sides to utilize equal strength to push up the weight. A barbell bench should be using both sides equally, though, but with dumbells there's no doubting both sides are lifting equally.

Take a close look at your form to make sure you're lifting correctly. Have an experienced trainer or lifter watch your lift to verify no mistakes are being made. Often it's very difficult for the lifter to notice they are making a mistake but can be obvious to an observer.

As a sidenote, you shouldn't be lifting the same muscle group every other day. You should allow at least three days recovery time between lifting the same muscle group, especially if the exercise is adequately intense. To lift too often risks overtraining and injury.

Answer 2

unfortunately the body doesn't grow evenly on many. I would switch to dumbbell only training for a while until the pecs even out. you should start each set with the weaker side and see how that goes for a month or two

Answer 3

This is just due to very small differences in the symmetry of your body. If there is slightly more muscle on the right side in different places, then the left works harder, similarly, if there is slightly more fat and 'dead weight' in places all over the left side of your body, then that side works harder. They should in time even out, but if you're worried do some flexes with dumbells (bring it straight up in front of you, arm extended and back down) with just the left arm.

Answer 4

That generally reflects how you use your muscles during the rest of the day. Everyone does common daily work asymmetrically. The body will reflect that no matter how much you lift. As long as it doesn't alter your bone structure, and having more muscle weight on one side can do that, it is just fine.

Answer 5

Asymmetrically.
I'm guessing you aren't done growing. You may be pushing too hard and your body hasn't enough time to adjust. Take it nice and slow - control at all times or you'll be pulled back to zero.