Common Mistake
The back is rounded due to scapular inactivity and/or flexed thoracic spine. This can also be paired with the neck being flexed, i.e. the head looking down or the chin really pushed forward. It may also be that the upper back is fatigued if you are able to achieve proper form at the start of your training but the form then deteriorates, and that may be the ramification of improper programming/adjusting (for your level). Fatigue can be due to too many, too heavy, and/or not enough rest.
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Solution
Keep the spine straight. Pull the scapulae (shoulder blades) together and down. This action pushes the chest out and brings the shoulders back. It also creates a stable base so that the arms and shoulders can do their work. To fix the neck, make sure that the head remains in the same position as it was when standing straight, in other words, keep the neck neutral (straight).
Description
This mistake can occur due to weakness in the upper back, fatigue, or simply not engaging the muscles that should be doing their work.
Here’s a photo of what this looks like during the swing.
Here’s a photo of what it should look like.
A rounded upper back may occur during backswings, squats, presses, and plenty of other exercises.
Related Exercises
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