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Dead Bug Arm Reach

IntermediateStrengthTier T1
Dead Bug Arm Reach

Lie on back and reach arms overhead while keeping back flat. Works core and shoulder control together.

Targets: Shoulder
Muscles: Deltoids, Serratus Anterior, Rotator Cuff, Lower Trapezius, Transverse Abdominis

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

8

Reps / Time

30 sec

Rest

3 seconds each way

Tempo

Step-by-Step Guide

Set up

  • Lie on your back
  • Bend knees to 90 degrees, feet off floor
  • Reach both arms toward ceiling
  1. Dead Bug Arm Reach - Step 1 of 5: Press your low back into the floor

    Step 1 of 5

    Press your low back into the floor

  2. Dead Bug Arm Reach - Step 2 of 5: Slowly lower one arm overhead toward floor

    Step 2 of 5

    Slowly lower one arm overhead toward floor

  3. Dead Bug Arm Reach - Step 3 of 5: Keep your back pressed down - don't arch

    Step 3 of 5

    Keep your back pressed down - don't arch

  4. Dead Bug Arm Reach - Step 4 of 5: Return arm to start

    Step 4 of 5

    Return arm to start

  5. Dead Bug Arm Reach - Step 5 of 5: Repeat with other arm

    Step 5 of 5

    Repeat with other arm

Breathing

  • Breathe out as you reach
  • Breathe in as you return

Form Cues

  • Keep low back pressed to floor
  • Move slowly
  • If back arches, don't go as far
  • Breathe out as you reach

Common Mistakes to Avoid

  • Back arching off floor
  • Moving too fast
  • Holding breath
  • Reaching too far

Safety Information

Stop if back arches. Focus on core control.

Progressions

Add light weight or reach opposite leg too

Regressions

Keep feet on floor or don't reach as far