Locking the elbows

Hello,

I've started doing some basic gymnastic and bodyweight exercises and am looking for a bit of advice to help me progress.

I have a couple of, possibly related, problems and both are evident when attempting handstands (against the wall), tuck planches and pullups:

1) My left shoulder is much weaker or less flexible than my right, perhaps both. I felt a minor pinching pain here when I tried to move into the advanced tuck planche position (which I've stopped trying for now).

2) I find that my left elbow really doesn't want to lock when there is a load present. However, it feels the same as my right if I just extend my arms out whilst standing up.

Do you think I need my left arm to compensate for the weaker shoulder and therefor it's harder to lock. Might the elbow issue be resolved if I continue shoulder strengthening and flexibility exercises? Or are there separate things I can do to help my elbow?

Thanks in advance for any suggestions,

didcot

It's always hard to say for sure without seeing you, but most likely it's simply an issue of needing more time under your belt.

For the flexibility side, Coach's wall extension exercise is excellent, make sure that you don't force it or feel any pinching. Try to figure out how your shoulders move.

For strength start with simple plank holds, nice and hollow chest and core. If you can't lock your elbows there, then start on your knees.

Thanks. I've started doing (and really feeling) the wall extensions and shoulder dislocates. It's good to hear that someone else thinks it's just a matter of time, patience and hard work.