Archive for category Upper Body Stretches
Upper Body Stretches
Posted by Laurie Stilwell in STRETCHES, Upper Body Stretches on July 25, 2011
Stretching the upper body is just as important as stretching the lower body. It can be so relaxing and calming after a tough upper workout to take a few minutes to stretch.
Not only is it enjoyable to stretch, but it is IMPORTANT to stretch. Keep your body long, lean and protected against injuries by taking the time to stretch.
Let me start by showing you a few upper body stretches that are easy to do and fairly self- explanatory.
On the bottom left I am stretching my mid and rear shoulder muscle. Actively pull the straight arm as far back as you can. Be sure to switch arms.
On the bottom right I am stretching the front of my shoulders and chest muscles. With both stretches I am consciously breathing into the tension and making sure I can feel a gentle tug in the desired area.
- Shoulder Stretch
- Front of Shoulder and Chest Stretch
The next 2 stretches I am going to show you will also stretch your shoulders, but mainly your chest muscles.
On the bottom left I am holding on to something stable behind me while I lean my body forward. Notice my feet are placed a bit behind me as well. My chest is pushing forward, in front of everything else. On the right bottom I am isolating my shoulder and chest muscle one side at a time. Notice how I am twisting my torso away from my arm. This allows me to really take the stretch deeper. Be sure to switch sides.
Chest and Shoulder Stretch
Isolated Chest and Shoulder Stretch
