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Exercise handout — move better, feel better.
Wing Flaps
You sit tall in a wheelchair and press the backs of both hands flat against your hips. You slowly swing both elbows forward as far as feels comfortable. Then you swing them backward as far as feels comfortable.
Stop if
Ease off the range of the forward swing immediately.
- Also stop if you notice
- Pain while rotating the elbows forward: if you feel any pain, you are pushing too hard.
- 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
30 sec
Rest
controlled
Tempo
Step-by-Step Guide
Set up
- Swing both elbows forward, then swing both elbows backward.

Step 1 of 3
Sit tall in your wheelchair, press the backs of both hands flat against your hips, and slowly swing both elbows forward as far as feels comfortable.

Step 2 of 3
Keep the backs of both hands pressed against your hips and slowly swing both elbows backward as far as feels comfortable.

Step 3 of 3
Sit tall in your wheelchair, press the backs of both hands flat against your hips, and slowly swing both elbows forward as far as feels comfortable.
Breathing
- Remember to breathe properly throughout the exercise and do not hold your breathe.
Safety Information
Consult your GP before beginning this exercise to make sure nothing is broken, torn, or otherwise injured. If you feel any pain as you rotate your elbows forward, you are pushing too hard: ease off the range of the swing immediately. Stop exercising immediately if you are in pain, and only try again once your arm is no longer sore. Stop if the exercise causes pain or you become unwell. Seek appropriate professional advice about symptoms or suitability.
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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.