Elbow Circles

Level
beginner
Force
pull
Mechanic
isolation
Category
stretching
Primary Muscles
Secondary Muscles
Elbow CirclesElbow Circles

A shoulder mobility and warm-up exercise performed by making circles with the elbows to improve shoulder joint health.

Instructions

  1. Sit or stand with your feet slightly apart and good posture.
  2. Place your hands on your shoulders with your elbows at shoulder level and pointing outward to the sides.
  3. Slowly make circular motions with your elbows, moving them forward, up, lats, and down.
  4. Breathe out as you start the circle and breathe in as you complete each rotation.
  5. Complete 8-10 circles in one direction, then reverse direction and repeat.

Tips

  • Keep your hands on your shoulders throughout the entire movement.
  • Use slow, controlled movements with a full range of motion.
  • This exercise is excellent for shoulder warm-up and mobility.
  • Can be performed seated or standing depending on your preference.
  • Focus on smooth, rhythmic breathing throughout.

Recommended starting values

Sensible novice starting points for each goal, for a lifter aged 25–40. Scale down for smaller frames or older lifters. Treat the first set of any session as a discovery set.

Goal Sets Reps
Gain strength 3 9 reps
Build muscle 3 13 reps
Build endurance 3 16 reps