Standing Overhead Clap
A simple, yet effective, exercise to improve mobility and coordination. Clap your way to better fitness!
The Standing Overhead Clap mainly works the chest and back, with help from the shoulders. No equipment needed: it uses just your bodyweight.
Standing Overhead Clap Muscles Worked
Primary
Upper Chest (pectoralis major, clavicular head); Boxer Muscle (serratus anterior)
Secondary
Lower Chest (pectoralis minor); Front Shoulder (anterior deltoid)
Standing Overhead Clap Variations and Alternatives
How to do the Standing Overhead Clap
Positioning:
Stand up straight with your feet shoulder-width apart.
Keep your knees slightly bent and your core engaged.
Extend your arms out to the sides at shoulder height, with palms facing forward.
Movement Instructions:
From the starting position, lift both arms up overhead while bringing your palms together. Your arms should create a straight line above your head.
Ensure that your shoulders remain relaxed and down as you lift your arms.
As you bring your arms back down, clap your hands together at shoulder height.
Quickly raise your arms back out to the sides and repeat the clap.
Continue this motion for the desired number of repetitions, focusing on maintaining good posture throughout.
Tips:
Move in a controlled manner, and avoid shrugging your shoulders.
Breathe steadily; exhale when you bring your arms overhead, and inhale as you bring them back down.
Start with a slower pace and increase speed as you become more comfortable with the movement.
Standing Overhead Clap FAQs
What muscles does the Standing Overhead Clap work?
The Standing Overhead Clap mainly works the chest and back, with help from the shoulders. The main muscles are the pectoralis major and serratus anterior.
What equipment do you need for the Standing Overhead Clap?
None. The Standing Overhead Clap is a bodyweight exercise, so you can do it anywhere.
What are some Standing Overhead Clap variations and alternatives?
Similar exercises include the Behind-Back Clap, Behind-Head Clap, Bodyweight Overhead Squat Press and Cheerleader Clap Backhand Swing.
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