Inside Circle (Indian Club)
A shoulder conditioning exercise using Indian clubs with a circular motion directed inward toward the body.
Instructions
- Stand with feet shoulder-width apart, holding an Indian club in one hand.
- Allow your arm to hang naturally at your side.
- This is your starting position.
- Begin making circular motions with the Indian club, moving it inward (inside circle motion).
- The club should trace a circular path from low to high, directed toward your body’s centerline.
- Complete the circular motion and return to the starting position.
- Maintain smooth, controlled movement throughout.
- Complete all repetitions on one side before switching to the other side.
- Perform for the prescribed number of repetitions.
Tips
- Start with lighter clubs to develop proper technique and control.
- Keep your shoulder relaxed and avoid tension.
- The circular motion should be smooth and deliberate, not jerky.
- This movement improves shoulder mobility and stabilizer muscle engagement.
- Maintain upright posture and avoid leaning excessively.
- Control the speed of the movement to maximize benefit.
Recommended starting values
Sensible novice starting points for each goal, for a lifter aged 25–40. Scale down for smaller frames or older lifters. Treat the first set of any session as a discovery set.
| Goal | Sets | Reps |
|---|---|---|
| Gain strength | 3 | 7 reps |
| Build muscle | 3 | 10 reps |
| Build endurance | 3 | 14 reps |