Above Head Chest Stretch

Stand with your feet shoulder-width apart, reach both arms overhead, and interlace your fingers. Turn your palms toward the ceiling and lightly brace your core so your ribs do not flare forward.

Slowly press your clasped hands up and slightly back to lengthen your arms and torso. Keep your shoulders down rather than shrugging toward your ears.

Stop where you feel a gentle stretch across your upper chest and hold. Rather than leaning farther back, stay at that point for about 15–20 seconds.

Focus on your upper chest and the fronts of your shoulders lengthening. If you feel only your lower back arching, lower your arm angle slightly to bring the stretch back to your chest.

Overarching your back or pulling with momentum shifts stress from your chest to your lower back. Keep your pelvis facing forward and lengthen only your upper body slowly.

Exhale slowly as you press your arms up and back, then breathe comfortably while holding. Natural breathing helps the muscles relax.

Short repetitions during times when your shoulders tend to round can help your posture. Move slowly after training or during a rest break rather than before your workout.