“Activation” exercises are often recommended at the beginnings of workouts. You might get the idea—whether from random TikToks or from a trainer you pay for their expertise—that activations are ...

Your rhomboid muscles connect your shoulder blade (scapula) to your spine. If your rhomboid muscles hurt, you’ll feel it in your back and shoulders. “The rhomboids can become painful because of ...

Beth Skwarecki is Lifehacker’s Senior Health Editor, and holds certifications as a personal trainer and weightlifting coach. She has been writing about health for over 10 years. “Activation” exercises ...