Appears in642 Workouts*

Lying Arm Crossed Stacked Stretch

Melt away tension! This stretch gently opens your shoulders and upper back. Relax and release.

The Lying Arm Crossed Stacked Stretch mainly works the back, with help from the traps and shoulders. No equipment needed: it uses just your bodyweight.

Ms. Grey
JustGains_XX
@JustGains_XX

Lying Arm Crossed Stacked Stretch Muscles Worked

Primary

Rhomboids (Shoulder Blade) (rhomboids, major & minor); Lats (latissimus dorsi)

Secondary

Upper Traps (trapezius, upper fibers); Shoulder Rotator (subscapularis)

How to do the Lying Arm Crossed Stacked Stretch

Positioning:

  1. Lie face down on a comfortable surface, such as a mat or soft carpet.

  2. Extend your legs straight back behind you, keeping them together and toes pointed.

  3. Cross your arms in front of your body, stacking one arm on top of the other. Your forearms should be parallel to each other.

  4. Rest your forehead on top of your stacked arms.

Movement:

  1. While keeping your forehead on your arms, relax your neck and shoulders.

  2. Breathe deeply and feel the stretch in your shoulders and upper back.

  3. Hold this position for 20 to 30 seconds, focusing on relaxing your body and deepening your breath.

  4. To come out of the stretch, gently uncross your arms and raise your head back to a neutral position.

Tips for Beginners:

  • Ensure you are comfortable and adjust your arms if necessary to avoid strain.

  • If you feel any discomfort in your shoulders or neck, slightly adjust your arm positioning or take a break.

  • Always listen to your body; stretches should feel good, not painful.

Lying Arm Crossed Stacked Stretch FAQs

What muscles does the Lying Arm Crossed Stacked Stretch work?

The Lying Arm Crossed Stacked Stretch mainly works the back, with help from the traps and shoulders. The main muscles are the rhomboids and latissimus dorsi.

What equipment do you need for the Lying Arm Crossed Stacked Stretch?

None. The Lying Arm Crossed Stacked Stretch is a bodyweight exercise, so you can do it anywhere.

What are some Lying Arm Crossed Stacked Stretch variations and alternatives?

Similar exercises include the Armless Prayer Stretch, Lying Assisted Straight-Arm Stretch, Exercise Ball Lat Stretch and Exercise Ball Lying-Side Lat Stretch.

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