Exercise Library / Cross-Body Shoulder Stretch
Cross-Body Shoulder Stretch
The cross-body shoulder stretch pulls one arm across your chest to lengthen the back of the shoulder.
What this exercise does
The cross-body shoulder stretch pulls one arm across your chest to lengthen the back of the shoulder. It is a quick way to ease tightness after desk work.
At a glance
- Body part
- Shoulders
- Muscles worked
- Shoulders
- Experience
- Beginner
- Equipment
- No Equipment
- Good for
- Joint-Friendly / Low-Impact
How to do it
- Stand or sit tall. Bring your right arm across your chest at shoulder height.
- Hold it above or below the elbow with your left hand.
- Gently pull it closer.
- Hold for 20 to 30 seconds.
- Switch arms.
Common mistakes
- Twisting the body.
- Lifting the shoulder.
- Pulling the arm by the wrist.
Make it easier or harder
Make it easier
Pull more gently, with less tension.
Make it harder
Pull a little further across.
Keep it safe
Keep it mild. Stop if you feel a pinch at the front of the shoulder.
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