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Lat Stretch

BeginnerstretchTier T0
Lat Stretch

Hold onto something and lean away to stretch the side of your back and shoulder.

Targets: Shoulder
Muscles: Latissimus Dorsi

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

  • doorway

No equipment? Try: Wall corner

Dosage

2

Sets

20 sec

Reps / Time

10 sec

Rest

20-30 second holds

Tempo

Step-by-Step Guide

Set up

  • Stand next to doorframe, pole, or sturdy object
  • Hold with one hand at about waist height
  • Step feet away from the anchor
  1. Lat Stretch - Step 1 of 5: Lean your hips away from your hand

    Step 1 of 5

    Lean your hips away from your hand

  2. Lat Stretch - Step 2 of 5: Let your arm straighten

    Step 2 of 5

    Let your arm straighten

  3. Lat Stretch - Step 3 of 5: Feel stretch along side of body under arm

    Step 3 of 5

    Feel stretch along side of body under arm

  4. Lat Stretch - Step 4 of 5: Hold for 20-30 seconds

    Step 4 of 5

    Hold for 20-30 seconds

  5. Lat Stretch - Step 5 of 5: Switch sides

    Step 5 of 5

    Switch sides

Breathing

  • Breathe into the stretched side
  • Slow deep breaths

Form Cues

  • Push hips away
  • Keep arm straight
  • Breathe into side body
  • Don't twist

Common Mistakes to Avoid

  • Not leaning far enough
  • Twisting body
  • Bending arm
  • Holding breath

Safety Information

Great stretch for tight lats. Go easy.

Progressions

Lean farther or hold longer

Regressions

Don't lean as far