Standing Chest Cross Stretch
Open your chest & improve flexibility! This simple stretch releases tension and promotes better posture. Do it anywhere!
The Standing Chest Cross Stretch mainly works the chest and shoulders, with help from the back and traps. No equipment needed: it uses just your bodyweight.
Standing Chest Cross Stretch Muscles Worked
Primary
Upper Chest (pectoralis major, clavicular head); Side Shoulder (lateral deltoid)
Secondary
Boxer Muscle (serratus anterior); Upper Traps (trapezius, upper fibers)
Standing Chest Cross Stretch Variations and Alternatives
How to do the Standing Chest Cross Stretch
Standing Chest Cross Stretch Instructions
Positioning:
Stand up straight with your feet shoulder-width apart.
Engage your core muscles to maintain good posture.
Extend your arms straight out to the sides at shoulder height, parallel to the ground.
Movement:
Bring your right arm across your body.
Use your left arm to gently pull your right arm toward your chest to deepen the stretch.
Hold the stretch for about 15-30 seconds, feeling the stretch in your chest and shoulders.
Slowly release and return to the starting position.
Repeat the movement, bringing your left arm across your body and using your right arm to pull it toward your chest.
Hold for 15-30 seconds again.
Repeat the stretch 2-3 times for each arm.
Tips:
Keep your shoulders relaxed and away from your ears.
Breathe deeply and steadily throughout the stretch.
Do not pull too hard; the stretch should feel comfortable but not painful.
Standing Chest Cross Stretch FAQs
What muscles does the Standing Chest Cross Stretch work?
The Standing Chest Cross Stretch mainly works the chest and shoulders, with help from the back and traps. The main muscles are the pectoralis major and lateral deltoid.
What equipment do you need for the Standing Chest Cross Stretch?
None. The Standing Chest Cross Stretch is a bodyweight exercise, so you can do it anywhere.
What workout day should the Standing Chest Cross Stretch go on?
It belongs on push day in a push/pull/legs routine.
What are some Standing Chest Cross Stretch variations and alternatives?
Similar exercises include the Overhead Chest Stretch, Shoulder Stretch Version IV, Arm Crossover and Arm Chest & Crossover.
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