Shoulder Stretch

Level
beginner
Force
static
Mechanic
isolation
Category
stretching
Primary Muscles
Secondary Muscles
Shoulder StretchShoulder Stretch

A gentle static stretch performed by reaching one arm across the body and using the opposite arm to pull it across the chest, targeting the shoulder joint and adjacent muscles.

Instructions

  1. Stand tall or sit upright with good posture and relaxed shoulders.
  2. Reach your left arm across your body at shoulder height.
  3. Hold your left arm straight or with a slight bend at the elbow.
  4. Use your right hand to gently grasp your left elbow or upper arm.
  5. Apply gentle pressure to pull your left arm toward your right shoulder and chest.
  6. Hold the stretch position, feeling a gentle stretch in the left shoulder and upper back.
  7. Keep your shoulders relaxed and avoid hunching forward.
  8. Release the stretch gently and repeat on the opposite side.

Tips

  • Hold the stretch for 20-30 seconds on each side without bouncing.
  • Breathe deeply and relax into the stretch; do not force it.
  • You should feel a comfortable stretch, not pain or sharp discomfort.
  • Perform this stretch after warm-up or at the end of your workout when muscles are warm.
  • Keep your torso upright; avoid leaning or rotating your spine.

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
Gain strength 3 25 s
Build muscle 3 40 s
Build endurance 3 1 min