Standing Reverse Shoulder Stretch

The Standing Reverse Shoulder Stretch is a simple yet effective exercise that targets the muscles in your shoulders, upper back, and chest. This exercise helps improve upper body flexibility, posture, and can alleviate muscle tension caused by prolonged sitting or computer work. To perform the Standing Reverse Shoulder Stretch, start by standing tall with your feet shoulder-width apart. Interlace your fingers behind your back, palms facing inward. Gently straighten and extend your arms, while keeping your shoulder blades down and back. If you find it difficult to clasp your hands together, you can use a towel or strap to bridge the gap. Once you're in position, focus on squeezing your shoulder blades together and pushing your chest out. You should feel a deep stretch in the front of your shoulders and chest. Hold this stretch for approximately 20-30 seconds, breathing deeply and relaxing into the stretch. Avoid hunching your shoulders or straining your neck during the exercise. The Standing Reverse Shoulder Stretch is a fantastic exercise to counteract the forward-leaning posture that many of us develop due to prolonged sitting or computer work. Consistently incorporating this stretch into your routine can help improve your posture, reduce muscle tension, and promote better overall upper body mobility. Remember, flexibility exercises like the Standing Reverse Shoulder Stretch should be performed regularly but with caution. If you experience any pain or discomfort during the stretch, modify the range of motion or consult with a fitness professional for proper guidance. Keep stretching and improving your overall flexibility for optimal health and well-being!

Instructions

• Stand tall with your feet hip-width apart.
• Reach your right arm across your body and place it on your left shoulder, palm facing inward.
• Take your left arm and place it on your right elbow, gently pulling your right arm closer to your body.
• Hold the stretch for 20-30 seconds, feeling the stretch in your right shoulder and upper back.
• Release the stretch and repeat on the other side, reaching your left arm across your body and placing it on your right shoulder.
• Take your right arm and place it on your left elbow, gently pulling your left arm closer to your body.
• Hold the stretch for 20-30 seconds, feeling the stretch in your left shoulder and upper back.
• Release the stretch and repeat the entire sequence 2-3 times on each side.

Tips & Tricks

• Engage your core muscles to maintain stability during the stretch.
• Breathe deeply and exhale as you deepen into the stretch for optimal relaxation and stretching.
• Do not force the stretch - go only as far as your own flexibility allows.
• Hold the stretch for at least 20 seconds to allow your muscles to relax and elongate.
• Inhale and exhale slowly throughout the stretch to promote relaxation and focus.
• Keep your shoulders relaxed and down away from your ears to maximize the effectiveness of the stretch.
• Avoid rounding your upper back during the stretch. Maintain good posture by keeping your spine straight.
• Perform the stretch on both sides of your body to ensure balanced flexibility.
• If you experience any pain or discomfort, stop the stretch and consult with a fitness professional.
• Use a towel or strap to assist in the stretch if you find it difficult to reach your hands together.