Lying Assisted Straight-Arm Stretch
Relax & lengthen chest and shoulders with this assisted stretch. A partner helps you deepen the pose for maximum tension release.
The Lying Assisted Straight-Arm Stretch mainly works the chest and back, with help from the traps. No equipment needed: it uses just your bodyweight.
Lying Assisted Straight-Arm Stretch Muscles Worked
Primary
Upper Chest (pectoralis major, clavicular head); Lats (latissimus dorsi)
Secondary
Boxer Muscle (serratus anterior); Mid Traps (trapezius, middle fibers)
Lying Assisted Straight-Arm Stretch Variations and Alternatives
How to do the Lying Assisted Straight-Arm Stretch
Starting Position:
One partner lies flat on their stomach on a comfortable surface (like a mat). They should stretch their arms out straight in front of them, palms facing down.
The other partner kneels or stands behind the partner on the floor, ensuring there is enough space to assist with the stretch.
Engaging the Stretch:
The person lying down should keep their head down and be relaxed, taking deep breaths.
The partner assisting should gently grasp the hands of the person lying down.
Executing the Stretch:
The assisting partner will slowly pull the hands of the person lying down away from their body, keeping their arms straight.
The person lying down should feel a stretch in their chest and shoulders as their arms extend further out.
Holding the Position:
Maintain this stretch for about 15-30 seconds, allowing the person lying down to relax and enjoy the stretch.
Encourage them to breathe deeply and focus on releasing any tension in their upper body.
Returning to Starting Position:
After the stretch duration, the assisting partner should slowly release the hold on the person's hands, allowing them to bring their arms back to the starting position.
Repeat:
Repeat the stretch 2-3 times, allowing the person lying down to enjoy the benefits of the assisted stretch while communicating throughout to ensure comfort.
Tips for Partners:
Ensure the stretch is done gently, avoiding any sudden movements.
Communicate throughout the exercise, as the person receiving the stretch may need adjustments for comfort.
Lying Assisted Straight-Arm Stretch FAQs
What muscles does the Lying Assisted Straight-Arm Stretch work?
The Lying Assisted Straight-Arm Stretch mainly works the chest and back, with help from the traps. The main muscles are the pectoralis major and latissimus dorsi.
What equipment do you need for the Lying Assisted Straight-Arm Stretch?
None. The Lying Assisted Straight-Arm Stretch is a bodyweight exercise, so you can do it anywhere.
What are some Lying Assisted Straight-Arm Stretch variations and alternatives?
Similar exercises include the Lying Arm Crossed Stacked Stretch, Lying Stretch, Side-Lying Chest Stretch and Side-Lying Assisted Adductor Stretch.
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