7 Low Impact Shoulder Stretches to Try
Posted by SIMON LIM
If you're looking for a way to ease tension in your shoulders, look no further! In this blog post, we will discuss seven low-impact shoulder stretches that you can try. They are gentle and easy to do and can help reduce pain and stiffness in the shoulder joint. So if you're looking for a way to improve your flexibility and mobility, be sure to give these low impact shoulder stretches a try!
Why Shoulder Mobility and Flexibility Is Important
One of the best things you can do for your shoulders is to improve your flexibility and mobility. The shoulder is a ball-and-socket joint, which means it has a wide range of motion.
However, this also means that the shoulder is susceptible to injury. That's why keeping your shoulders healthy and strong is so important. And one of the best ways to do that is to stretch them regularly.
You can do many different shoulder stretches, but we've compiled a list of our favorites. These seven stretches are perfect for people who have tight shoulders or who are just starting to get back into working out.
Low Impact Shoulder Stretches
- Pec Stretch
This stretch is a great way to relieve shoulder and chest tension.
To do this stretch:
- Stand with your arms at your sides and clasp your hands behind your back.
- Lift your arms up and back as far as you can comfortably go.
- You should feel a nice stretch in your chest and shoulders.
- Hold this position for 30 seconds or longer, then release.
- Repeat as needed.
- Triceps Stretch
This stretch is a great way to loosen up your shoulders and upper arms muscles.
To do this stretch:
- Stand with your feet shoulder-width apart and raise your arms overhead.
- Bend your elbows, interlace your fingers, and then rotate your palms away from your face.
- Gently pull your elbows back until you feel a stretch in the muscles of your triceps.
- Hold the stretch for 20-30 seconds, then release.
- Repeat on the other side.
- Lat Stretch
A good lat stretch can help improve shoulder mobility and prevent injuries. It can also help to relieve tension in the back and neck.
To do this stretch:
- Start by standing with your feet shoulder-width apart.
- Reach your right arm overhead and place your hand on your left shoulder.
- Gently pull your left elbow across your body until you feel a stretch in your right lat.
- Hold this position for 30 seconds, then release.
- Repeat on the other side.
- Shoulder Circles
This stretch is a great way to loosen up before a workout or relieve shoulder tension at the end of the day.
To do this exercise:
- Start by standing with your feet shoulder-width apart and your arms by your sides.
- Raise your arms to the sides, parallel with the ground.
- From here, start making small circles with your shoulders.
- Slowly increase the size of the circles until you feel a stretch in your shoulders.
- Reverse the direction of the circles and continue for 30 seconds.
- Arm Swings
This stretch is a great way to get your blood flowing and loosen up your muscles. They are also a great way to release energy.
To do this exercise:
- Start by standing with your feet shoulder-width apart and your arms by your sides.
- Swing your arms forward and back in a rhythmic fashion.
- Remember to keep your core engaged and your shoulders relaxed as you swing your arms.
- Do this for 30 seconds, then rest for 30 seconds.
- Doorway Stretch
This stretch targets the muscles and tendons around the shoulder joint, helping to loosen them and increase the range of motion.
To do this stretch:
- Stand in a doorway with your feet shoulder-width apart and your arms by your sides.
- Reach up and grab onto the door frame at about chest height.
- Gently pull your body forward until you feel a stretch in your chest and shoulders.
- Hold this stretch for 30 seconds, then release.
- Repeat on the other side.
- Seated Shoulder Stretch
This stretch targets the muscles and tendons around the shoulder joint. It is also effective for relieving tension headaches, as it helps release the muscles that run from the neck into the skull.
To do this stretch:
- Sit on the ground with your legs extended in front of you and your arms by your sides.
- Reach behind you with one arm and grab onto the other arm's elbow.
- Gently pull your elbow back until you feel a stretch in your shoulder.
- Hold this stretch for 30 seconds.
- Repeat on the other side.
Safety Tips
It's essential to stretch safely to avoid injury. Here are a few tips to keep in mind:
- Start each stretch slowly and gently. You should only feel a mild stretch, not pain.
- If you start to feel pain, stop the stretch and rest for a few seconds.
- Breathe deeply as you hold each stretch.
- Repeat each stretch two or three times.
- Stretch every day for the best results.
- Consult your doctor before starting any new stretching routine, especially if you have any chronic health conditions.
Takeaways
Stretching is an essential part of keeping your muscles healthy and flexible. These seven low impact shoulder stretches are a great way to loosen up those tight muscles. Remember to stretch safely to avoid injury. Stretch every day for the best results.
If you're looking for more of a challenge, try adding some weight to your stretches by holding a dumbbell or weight plate. You can also try using a resistance band for added resistance. With regular stretching, you'll see an improvement in your range of motion and flexibility. Your muscles will thank you for it!
SHARE: