How to do an Open Book Stretch
Reviewed by Jim Parker, CPT, B.A. Kinesiology
About Open Book Stretch
Workouts with Open Book Stretch
Target muscles worked
Instructions for Proper Form
Open Book Stretch is a mobility exercise that targets the thoracic spine and shoulders. This dynamic movement involves lying on your side with your knees bent and arms extended, then opening your top arm to rotate your torso. This exercise is excellent for improving thoracic mobility and reducing stiffness in the upper back and shoulders, making it great for pre-workout warm-ups or post-exercise recovery.
- Lie on one side with your hips and knees bent at 90 degrees—you should look like you’re sitting in an invisible chair from above.
- Extend your arms straight out in front of you and put your palms together.
- Keep your legs in the same position throughout the exercise.
- Raise your top arm in an arc over you, toward the side you’re not facing.
- Stop your arc when you feel a stretch in your shoulder and chest.
- Hold this position for the duration of the stretch.
- Switch sides and repeat.
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