The Most Neglected Muscles

It seems that some muscles get all the attention. Pecs, biceps, and abs are always hogging the spotlight and are usually the favorite kids while the step child muscles get neglected. Many people emphasize their "mirror muscles" when training but forget about the ones they don't see as often.

I'm not a bodybuilder, but one of the things I admire about the sport is the attention they give to detail, balance, and symmetry. Occasionally I will see a guy at the gym with a massive upper body, but he looks like a stork from the waist down since he doesn't care about working his lower body.

That may be an extreme example, but it is probably more common for people to neglect exercising muscles just out of ignorance. Here is a list of muscles that could stand more attention from most people (including myself.)

Back (especially the lower back)
Neck

Forearms

Hamstrings

Calves

Glutes

Remember when you work out, it is important to work the agonist and it's antagonist muscle. Failure to do so can create muscle imbalances which can set you up for injury. Take some time to evaluate your lifting routine. Are there entire body parts you ignore? Are you working opposing muscle groups? If you can keep from neglecting certain muscle groups, then you will be stronger and have a more balanced physique.