Appears in642 Workouts*

Resistance-Band Behind-Back Shoulder Stretch

Improve shoulder flexibility! Gently stretch with a resistance band to increase range of motion. Perfect for warm-up or cool-down.

The Resistance-Band Behind-Back Shoulder Stretch mainly works the shoulders and traps, with help from the biceps and triceps. You'll need: resistance bands.

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Required Equipment

Resistance Bands
Resistance Bands

Resistance-Band Behind-Back Shoulder Stretch Muscles Worked

Primary

Rear Shoulder (Delts) (posterior deltoid); Upper Traps (trapezius, upper fibers)

Secondary

Biceps (biceps brachii); Triceps (triceps brachii)

How to do the Resistance-Band Behind-Back Shoulder Stretch

  1. Select the right resistance band: Begin by selecting an appropriate resistance band, ideally one with a light to moderate tension level to avoid overextending the muscles during stretching.

  2. Position yourself: Stand or sit upright in a comfortable position. You can perform this stretch either seated or standing as long as you maintain good posture.

  3. Begin the stretch: Hold the resistance band in one hand and reach that arm over and behind your head, allowing the band to hang down your back.

  4. Adjust and grasp: With your other hand, reach behind your lower back to grasp the other end of the band. You should now have one arm reaching behind your head and the other behind your back, both holding the resistance band.

  5. Engage the stretch: Gently pull on the band to create tension and start the stretch. The hand reaching behind your head should pull upward, and the hand behind your back should pull downward.

  6. Find a comfortable stretch position: Find a position where you feel a comfortable stretch through your shoulders and arms. Be sure not to overstretch or cause pain.

  7. Hold and breathe: Hold the stretch for 15 to 30 seconds, breathing deeply and maintaining an upright posture.

  8. Release and switch: Relax and release the tension on the band, then switch arms and repeat the stretch with the opposite arm reaching above and the other behind your back.

  9. Repeat as necessary: Perform this stretch for 2 to 3 repetitions on each side, or follow the recommendations provided by your fitness professional or physical therapist.

Motion control: Remember to always perform this stretch with control and within a comfortable range of motion. Overstretching can lead to injury.

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Resistance-Band Behind-Back Shoulder Stretch FAQs

What muscles does the Resistance-Band Behind-Back Shoulder Stretch work?

The Resistance-Band Behind-Back Shoulder Stretch mainly works the shoulders and traps, with help from the biceps and triceps. The main muscles are the posterior deltoid and trapezius.

What equipment do you need for the Resistance-Band Behind-Back Shoulder Stretch?

Resistance bands.

What are some Resistance-Band Behind-Back Shoulder Stretch variations and alternatives?

Similar exercises include the Back & Shoulder Stretch, Back Scrub, Band Behind-Neck Shoulder Press and Band Rear-Delt Row.

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