Overhead Stretch (Dumbbell)
A stretching exercise using light dumbbells held overhead to improve shoulder mobility and flexibility.
Instructions
- Stand or sit upright with dumbbells held at shoulder height.
- Press the dumbbells overhead to full arm extension.
- Allow the dumbbells to move slightly behind your head while maintaining arm extension.
- Feel a stretch through your shoulders, chest, and lats.
- Hold the stretched position for 15-30 seconds while breathing deeply.
- Return to the starting position.
- Repeat for the prescribed number of stretches or duration.
Tips
- Use very light weight to focus on the stretch without resistance
- Breathe deeply throughout the stretch; do not hold your breath
- Allow gravity to gently pull the dumbbells to deepen the stretch
- Keep your core engaged to protect your lower back
- This is best performed after warm-up or at the end of your workout
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 | Hold | Weight | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Male | Female | |||
| Gain strength | 3 | 25 s | 9 kg | 5 kg |
| Build muscle | 3 | 40 s | 8 kg | 4 kg |
| Build endurance | 3 | 1 min | 6 kg | 3 kg |