Cross over shoulder stretch

Category

Stretching

Difficulty

Beginner

Equipment

Yoga Mat

Primary muscles

Deltoids, Trapezius, Rhomboids

Secondary muscles

Erector Spinae, Rectus Abdominis, Obliques

How to do it

1. Begin by standing with your feet shoulder-width apart. Lean forward at your hips with a slight arch in your back.
2. Cross your arms and place your hands on your knees.
3. Engage your core and gently press your chest downward to feel the stretch in your shoulders and upper back.
4. Hold the stretch for the desired duration, then slowly return to a standing position.

Form tips

• Keep your core engaged to maintain stability and support your lower back.
• Focus on keeping a slight arch in your back and avoid rounding your spine.
• Perform the stretch with control to avoid overextending your shoulders.
• Breathe deeply and steadily throughout the stretch, inhaling through your nose and exhaling through your mouth.