Elbows Back

Level
beginner
Force
static
Mechanic
isolation
Category
stretching
Primary Muscles
Secondary Muscles
Elbows BackElbows Back

A static stretching exercise that opens the chest and shoulders by pulling elbows backward.

Instructions

  1. Stand upright with good posture, feet hip-width apart.
  2. Place both hands on your lower back with fingers pointing downward and elbows pointing out to the sides.
  3. Gently pull your elbows back, aiming to bring them closer together behind your body.
  4. Hold this position for 15-30 seconds while maintaining upright posture.
  5. Release and relax.
  6. Repeat 2-3 times as needed.

Tips

  • Keep your chest open and shoulders relaxed.
  • Do not force the movement or push beyond a comfortable stretch.
  • This is an excellent posture correction exercise.
  • Perform this regularly throughout the day to combat forward shoulder posture.
  • Pairs well with back strengthening exercises.

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

Alternatives

Exercises that target the same muscles with the same force and mechanic.

intermediate stretching
beginner stretching
Chest And Front Of Shoulder Stretch

Chest And Front Of Shoulder Stretch

Learn more about chest and front of shoulder stretch
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