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Alternating Dumbbell Bench Press

One of the reasons why dumbbell exercises are so effective is because they cause us to recruit more of the stabilizing tissues surrounding any given joint than would be used when doing that same exercise with a barbell, or in an exercise machine. By alternating from one side to the other, even more stability is required, which not only increases the strength of the tendons and the ligaments that are used during the movement, but also increases the level of neuromuscular communication that you have with your body. A heightened level of neuromuscular communication equals not only a heightened level of strength, but the ability to retain that strength for longer periods of time, even as we get older.