Top Static Stretches - Upper Back and Shoulder Stretch

Many people who experience pain in the shoulders and neck will find this stretch to be very effective.

The Parallel Arm Upper Back/Shoulder Stretch will be helpful if you have tight shoulders and traps. Stand upright and place one arm across your chest. Keep your arm parallel to the ground and pull your elbow towards your opposite shoulder.

• This will stretch the trapezius, rhomboids, latissimus dorsi, posterior deltoid, supraspinatus, infraspinatus, and the teres major and minor.

This is the 10th of our Top Static Stretches Series of posts. Stay tuned for the more great articles on Stretching and Flexibility. * Note to always warm up before performing static stretches. It is important to hold each stretch a minimum of 30-60 seconds for full benefit.*

1. Quadriceps Stretch
2. Calves Stretch
3. Achilles and Soleus Stretch
4. Adductor Stretch
5. Abductor Stretch
6. Hip Flexors
7. Low Back Stretch
8. Triceps & Lats Stretch
9. Abdominal Stretches
10. Upper Back Static Stretch
11. Hamstring Stretch
12. The Neck Stretch
13. Chest and Shoulder Stretch

Reference: 

Lucette., & Clark, C. (2008) NASM Essentials of Personal Fitness Training (p. 139-171)