Overhead Triceps Stretch
Triceps stretch: elbow up and behind the head, with gentle pressure from the other hand.
How to do it
- Stand or sit tall with feet shoulder-width apart.
- Raise your right arm and bend the elbow so the palm rests behind your head between the shoulder blades.
- Grip the right elbow with your left hand.
- Gently pull the elbow up and slightly back until you feel a stretch along the back of the arm.
- Hold for about 30 seconds, breathing evenly.
- Release smoothly and repeat on the other side.
Key technique cue
Elbow up and behind the head, press gently with the other hand. Hold 30 s per side.
Common mistakes
- ✕ Arching the lower back and flaring the ribs
- ✕ Pushing on the elbow with jerks
- ✕ Elbow drifting forward or out to the side
- ✕ Shoulders shrugged toward the ears
Benefits
- ✓ Shoulder joint mobility
- ✓ Relaxed triceps after training
- ✓ Easier overhead reaching
About the exercise
A simple stretch for the triceps and the back of the upper arm. It restores overhead shoulder mobility after pressing, push-ups and pull-ups. Good for a cool-down or a short break from desk work.
Updated
Similar exercises
A week of training and meals built for you
Workoutify plans workouts around your days, time and equipment — and a menu for your goal and macros.