what is lats

The term "lats" is a common abbreviation for the latissimus dorsi muscle, which is a large, flat muscle on the back that stretches to the sides, behind the arm, and is partly covered by the trapezius on the back near the midline. The latissimus dorsi muscle is the largest muscle in the upper body and is often called the "lats" or the latissimus for short. It is considered an extrinsic muscle of the back, meaning it is a muscle that originates from the myogenic cells in the developing upper limb buds rather than from the myotomal dorsal epaxial division of the somite where the intrinsic (deep back) muscles take origin. The muscles primary function is to move the arm, shoulder, and trunk, and it also helps to stabilize the back while extending the shoulders. Pain in the latissimus dorsi, or "lat muscle," can happen due to overuse, or it may be a result of poor technique in sports or similar activities. Several exercises can help to prevent or relieve this pain, such as chin-ups or beginners chair-assisted chin-ups.