BackLibrary
Appears in642 Workouts*

Alternating Standing Straight-Arm Clasp

Release tension with alternating arm clasps! Stretch your shoulders and upper back with this simple, standing exercise.

The Alternating Standing Straight-Arm Clasp mainly works the back, with help from the shoulders. No equipment needed: it uses just your bodyweight.

Ms. Grey
JustGains_XX
@JustGains_XX

Alternating Standing Straight-Arm Clasp Muscles Worked

Primary

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

Secondary

Boxer Muscle (serratus anterior); Shoulder Rotator (subscapularis)

Alternating Standing Straight-Arm Clasp Variations and Alternatives

How to do the Alternating Standing Straight-Arm Clasp

Standing Opposite Straight Arm Clasp

Positioning:

  1. Stand upright with your feet shoulder-width apart.

  2. Keep your knees slightly bent and your core engaged.

  3. Extend your arms straight out in front of you, with your palms facing down.

  4. Clasp your left hand with your right hand, holding them together.

Movement:

  1. While maintaining a straight back, extend your clasped hands forward.

  2. Slightly bend at your waist and lean forward with your torso, keeping your arms straight.

  3. Hold this position for a few seconds, feeling a stretch in your shoulders and upper back.

  4. Return to the starting position by standing up straight and unclasp your hands.

  5. Repeat the movement two to three times, then switch your clasp (right hand over left) and repeat.

Tips:

  • Keep your neck relaxed and avoid hunching your shoulders.

  • Breathe deeply throughout the exercise to enhance relaxation.

  • Ensure that your movements are slow and controlled to avoid injury.

Alternating Standing Straight-Arm Clasp FAQs

What muscles does the Alternating Standing Straight-Arm Clasp work?

The Alternating Standing Straight-Arm Clasp mainly works the back, with help from the shoulders. The main muscles are the latissimus dorsi and rhomboids.

What equipment do you need for the Alternating Standing Straight-Arm Clasp?

None. The Alternating Standing Straight-Arm Clasp is a bodyweight exercise, so you can do it anywhere.

What are some Alternating Standing Straight-Arm Clasp variations and alternatives?

Similar exercises include the Back Slap Wrap Around Stretch, Arm in Vertical Extension Stretch, Towel Figure 8 and Kneeling Backward Reach.

Training calculators

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