Stretching · Bodyweight

Reach Behind and Open

Open the chest and free up a stiff shoulder.

Reach Behind and Open exercise demonstration
StretchingSecondary: ShouldersBodyweight

How to do it

  1. Stand tall and bring one hand behind your back, up between your shoulder blades.
  2. Reach your other arm overhead and bend the elbow to drop that hand down.
  3. Work your fingertips toward each other and press your chest forward.
  4. Hold and breathe, then switch sides.

The one cue that matters

Ease into it, use a towel between the hands if they don't meet yet.

Muscles worked

The Reach Behind and Open is a Stretching-first movement, with Shoulders working as the supporting cast. Track it consistently and you'll see exactly how it feeds your stretching volume for the week.

FAQ

What muscles does the Reach Behind and Open work?

The Reach Behind and Open primarily works the Stretching with Shoulders assisting.

How long should I hold it?

Start with sets you can hold with perfect position, even if short. Add a few seconds each session; quality beats clock-watching.

One side at a time?

Yes, it's a unilateral movement. Start with your weaker side and match the reps with your stronger side so no side gets ahead.

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