Why this one exists
The long head of the triceps crosses the shoulder. Opening it helps overhead reach and takes some strain out of the back of the arm after pushing work.
Set up
Sit or stand. Reach the right arm overhead, then bend the elbow so the right hand finds the upper back.
Steps
- Use the left hand to hold the right elbow, not to yank it.
- Keep the ribs down so you do not arch to get the elbow higher.
- Look forward, not up.
- Switch arms.
What you should feel
Back of the upper arm and sometimes the side of the shoulder blade.
Skip if it hurts
Skip if the shoulder cannot reach this shape without a front-of-shoulder pinch. Use a towel in the hand instead of forcing the elbow.
Common mistakes
Do not shove the head forward to make room.