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Shoulder Rolls

BeginnerMobilityTier T0

Roll your shoulders in circles to release tension. Perfect for desk workers.

Targets: Shoulder

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

none

Home Options

  • bodyweight

Dosage

2

Sets

10

Reps / Time

15 sec

Rest

2 seconds per roll

Tempo

Step-by-Step Guide

Set up

  • Sit or stand with good posture
  • Arms relaxed at your sides
  • Look straight ahead
  1. No image for this step. Follow the written instruction.

    Step 1 of 5

    Lift both shoulders up toward your ears

  2. No image for this step. Follow the written instruction.

    Step 2 of 5

    Roll them backward

  3. No image for this step. Follow the written instruction.

    Step 3 of 5

    Drop them down and relax

  4. No image for this step. Follow the written instruction.

    Step 4 of 5

    Continue making smooth circles

  5. No image for this step. Follow the written instruction.

    Step 5 of 5

    After 10 circles, reverse direction

Breathing

  • Breathe in as shoulders go up
  • Breathe out as they go down

Form Cues

  • Make big circles
  • Move slowly and smoothly
  • Feel the tension release
  • Keep your neck relaxed

Common Mistakes to Avoid

  • Moving too fast
  • Only going up and down
  • Tensing your neck
  • Shallow movements

Safety Information

Very safe. Great to do throughout the day at work.

Progressions

Hold the top position longer or add light shrugs

Regressions

Make smaller movements if needed