Open Book Stretch
Improve spinal mobility & relieve tension with the Open Book Stretch. A simple exercise for a flexible back and relaxed chest.
The Open Book Stretch mainly works the chest, with help from the core. No equipment needed: it uses just your bodyweight.
Open Book Stretch Muscles Worked
Primary
Chest (pectoralis major, sternal head); Upper Chest (pectoralis major, clavicular head)
Secondary
Obliques
Open Book Stretch Variations and Alternatives
How to do the Open Book Stretch
Start by lying on your side with your knees bent and stacked on top of each other. Your arms should be outstretched in front of you with the palms together.
Keeping your knees together and on the ground, open up your top arm and rotate your upper body as if you're opening a book. Your head should follow the movement of your arm, ensuring that your neck is part of the twist.
Stretch your top arm back as far as is comfortable, aiming to lay your shoulder and arm flat on the floor while keeping the knees together and on the ground. You should feel a stretch through the chest and the thoracic spine.
Hold the end position for 15-30 seconds, breathing steadily and deepening the stretch gradually.
Return your top arm to the starting position, with palms touching.
Repeat the stretch 2-4 times on one side before switching to the other side.
---
Open Book Stretch FAQs
What muscles does the Open Book Stretch work?
The Open Book Stretch mainly works the chest, with help from the core. The main muscles are the pectoralis major.
What equipment do you need for the Open Book Stretch?
None. The Open Book Stretch is a bodyweight exercise, so you can do it anywhere.
What are some Open Book Stretch variations and alternatives?
Similar exercises include the Floor Lying Chest Opener Roll, Side-Lying Chest Stretch, Side-Lying Open Thoracic Book and Side-Lying Wide Opener.
Training calculators
Work out the numbers behind your training before your next session.