Appears in642 Workouts*

Standing Arm Behind-Back Crossover

Improve shoulder mobility and posture with this simple stretch. Great for warm-ups or cool-downs!

The Standing Arm Behind-Back Crossover mainly works the shoulders, with help from the traps and back. No equipment needed: it uses just your bodyweight.

Ms. Grey
JustGains_XX
@JustGains_XX

Standing Arm Behind-Back Crossover Muscles Worked

Primary

Side Shoulder (lateral deltoid); Rear Shoulder (Delts) (posterior deltoid)

Secondary

Upper Traps (trapezius, upper fibers); Rhomboids (Shoulder Blade) (rhomboids, major & minor)

How to do the Standing Arm Behind-Back Crossover

  1. Starting Position:

    • Stand up straight with your feet shoulder-width apart.

    • Ensure your core is engaged, and maintain a neutral spine.

  2. Hand Positioning:

    • Extend both arms straight out to your sides, parallel to the ground.

    • Keep your palms facing forward.

  3. Crossover Movement:

    • Gradually bring your right arm across your body, moving it towards your left hip.

    • At the same time, move your left arm behind your back, reaching towards your right side.

  4. Hold the Position:

    • Aim to touch your fingertips together or as close as possible.

    • If you cannot reach your fingers, just go as far as you can without straining.

  5. Return to Starting Position:

    • Slowly release the arms and return to the starting position with your arms extended out to the sides.

  6. Repeat:

    • Switch arms and perform the crossover with your left arm going across your body and your right arm reaching behind.

    • Continue alternating sides for 10-15 repetitions on each side.

Tips:

  • Keep your movements smooth and controlled.

  • Focus on maintaining good posture throughout the exercise.

  • If you feel any discomfort in your shoulders, reduce the range of motion.

Standing Arm Behind-Back Crossover FAQs

What muscles does the Standing Arm Behind-Back Crossover work?

The Standing Arm Behind-Back Crossover mainly works the shoulders, with help from the traps and back. The main muscles are the lateral deltoid and posterior deltoid.

What equipment do you need for the Standing Arm Behind-Back Crossover?

None. The Standing Arm Behind-Back Crossover is a bodyweight exercise, so you can do it anywhere.

What are some Standing Arm Behind-Back Crossover variations and alternatives?

Similar exercises include the Double-Arm Crossover, Arm Crossover, Behind-Neck Arms-Forward and Bodyweight Standing Outer Push.

Training calculators

Work out the numbers behind your training before your next session.