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Exercise handout — move better, feel better.
Wall Thoracic Extension
Stand with your back to a wall and gently lift your chest without arching your lower back. Safe and gentle extension exercise.
Stop if
Choose an easier exercise if pain reaches 6 out of 10 or becomes sharp. Stop and rest if pain reaches 8 out of 10.
This is the general ClapMove rule. This exercise has no extra stop rule of its own.
- Pain 6 out of 10 or more: choose an easier exercise.
- Pain 8 out of 10 or more: stop and rest.
Equipment needed
- Works at home
- Works at the gym
Home Options
- wall
Dosage
2
Sets
10
Reps / Time
30 sec
Rest
slow and controlled
Tempo
Step-by-Step Guide
Set up
- Stand with your back flat against a wall
- Bend knees slightly and step feet forward 6 inches
- Press your lower back gently into the wall
- Tuck your chin slightly
No image for this step. Follow the written instruction.
Step 1 of 5
Keep lower back pressed into wall
No image for this step. Follow the written instruction.
Step 2 of 5
Gently lift your chest toward the ceiling
No image for this step. Follow the written instruction.
Step 3 of 5
Feel a stretch in your mid-back
No image for this step. Follow the written instruction.
Step 4 of 5
Hold for 2 seconds
No image for this step. Follow the written instruction.
Step 5 of 5
Relax and repeat
Breathing
- Breathe naturally
- Exhale as you lift chest
Form Cues
- Chest lifts, low back stays flat
- Think of lengthening your spine
- Keep breathing
- Gentle effort only
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Arching lower back off wall
- Jutting chin forward
- Holding breath
- Too much effort
Safety Information
Very safe exercise. Good option when other extension exercises are too intense.
Progressions
Add arm raises or hold position longer
Regressions
Focus on just pressing low back into wall without chest lift
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Printed from clapmove.com. ClapMove is not a replacement for professional medical advice — always consult a healthcare provider before starting any exercise program.