A stretch targeting the chest and front of the shoulders, performed by crossing the arms in front of the body and pressing the palms together to open up the pectorals and deltoids.
Also Works
Shoulders
How to Perform
1
Stand tall with your feet shoulder-width apart.
2
Extend your arms straight out in front of you at shoulder height.
3
Cross your arms in front of your body, with your right arm on top of your left arm.
4
Interlace your fingers and press your palms together.
5
Gently squeeze your shoulder blades together and push your hands forward, feeling a stretch in your chest and front of your shoulders.
6
Hold the stretch for 20-30 seconds, then release.
7
Repeat for the desired number of repetitions.
Pro Tips
•Interlace your fingers behind your back and gently lift your arms while squeezing your shoulder blades together.
•Keep your chest lifted and avoid rounding the upper back during the stretch.
•Hold for 20-30 seconds and breathe deeply to allow the chest and shoulder muscles to fully lengthen.
Common Mistakes
•Rounding the upper back forward, which counteracts the chest stretch you are trying to achieve.
•Forcing the arms too high behind the back, which can strain the shoulder joint.
•Holding the breath instead of breathing steadily, which prevents the muscles from relaxing into the stretch.