Chest Stretch |
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Chest Stretch - Hands behind the back
This is a great stretch for the chest, front shoulder and bicep muscles. It can help warm up most of the upper body in one, thus if short on time then the chest stretch is one with should be performed more than any other upper body stretch. Use this stretch as part of a warm up routine rather than trying to increase flexibility. You should not try to push this stretch too far, too soon. Start off with the hands closer to the buttocks, as it becomes easier over the weeks you can slowly try to move the hands up a little at a time. Remember though, always remain within a comfortable stretch area for the chest stretch.
How to do the Chest Stretch* Start in a seated or standing position. Using both hands reach around to your back until the hands meet in the middle. Grasp both hands together by interlocking the fingers, at this point the elbows should be unlocked. Now slowly push the shoulders back and straighten the arms until the elbows lock out - stop the stretch completely if you feel pain at any time! You should feel it pull slightly in the chest and maybe the arms. Hold the stretch for 20 - 30 seconds. Now gently unlock the elbows before releasing the hands. If this stretch is easy then try to gently lift the hands upwards until you feel a slight stretch in the chest, shoulders or arms. The chest stretch can be tough so I would advise you perform this one under the guidance of a qualified instructor.
* Remember it's much safer to under stretch than to overstretch. Always remain within the comfortable stretch zone. Never go to the point where you cannot possibly stretch any more as this could do more harm than good! If you feel any pain or discomfort at any stage of the stretch then stop the stretch immediately! Never force a stretch even if you are attempting to increase flexibility.
The cool down period after training is just as important as the warm up How to warm up thoroughly before any exercise to lose weight Hamstring stretch to lower injury when running Warming up the ankle joint ready for running Lower back stretch to limber up the spine Thigh stretching before running or walking Calf muscle stretch to warm up lower legs Cobra stretch for the stomach muscles Shoulder and Triceps stretch in one Stretching around the groin area Stretching the shoulder muscles
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