back scratcher stretch

A simple exercise, often used in a warmup routine for stretching the upper arm and shoulder muscles.

▪ Standing upright, use one hand to reach behind your neck and touch the area of your back between your shoulder blades; use your other hand to push down slowly and gently on the elbow until you feel a tension but no pain. Hold the position for 10-20 seconds and repeat with the other arm. When you can perform this exercise easily, bend to one side to increase the tension on the lats (latissimus dorsi muscles).